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THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

BY 

BOOTH TARKINGTON and JULIAN STREET 




SAMUEL FRENCH, 28-30 West 38th St., New York 



BILLETED. 

A comedy in 3 acts, by F. Tennison Jesse and H. Harwood. 4 males, 
5 females. One easy interior scene. A charming comedy, constructed 
with uncommon skill, and abounds with clever lines. Margaret Anglin's 
big success. Amateurs will find this comedy easy to produce and popular 
with all audiences. Price, 60 Cents. 

NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH. 

/ A comedy in 3 acts. By James Montgomery. 5 males, 6 females. Cos- 
tumes, modern. Two interior scenes. Plays 2% hours. 

/ Is it possible to tell the absolute truth — even for twenty-four hours? It is— 
"yleast Bob Bennett, the hero of "Nothing But the Truth," accomplished the 
teat. The bet he made with his business partners, and the trouble he got into— 
with his partners, his friends, and his fiancee — this is the subject of William 
Collier's tremendous comedy hit. "Nothing But the Truth" can be whole-heartedly 
recommended as' one of the most sprightly, amusing and popular comedies that 
this country can boast. Price, 60 Cents. 

IN WALKED JIMMY. 

A comedy in 4 acts, by Minnie Z. Jaffa. 10 males, 2 females (although 
any number of males and females may be used as clerks, etc.) Two 
interior scenes. Costumes, modern. Plays 2 l / 2 hours. The thing into 
which Jimmy walked was a broken-down shoe factory, when the clerks 
had all been fired, and when the proprietor was in serious contemplation 
of suicide. 

Jimmy, nothing else but plain Jimmy, would have been a mysterious figure 
had it not been for his matter-of-fact manner, his smile and his everlastinp 
humanness. He put the shoe business on its feet, won the heart of the gir? 
clerk, saved her erring brother from jail, escaped that place as a permanent 
boarding house himself, and foiled the villain. 

Clean, wholesome comedy with just a touch of human nature, just a dash o> 
excitement and more than a little bit of true philosophy make "In Walked Jimmy" 
one of the most delightful of plays. Jimmy is full of the religion of life, th 
religion of happiness and the religion of helpfulness', and he so permeates th 
atmosphere with his "religion" that everyone is happy. The spirit of optimism 
good cheer, and hearty laughter dominates the play. There is not a dull moment 
in any of the four acts. We strongly recommend it. Price, 60 Cents. 

MARTHA BY-THE-DAY. 

An optimistic comedy in three acts, by Julie M. Lippmann, author oi 
the "Martha" stories. 5 males, 5 females. Three interior scenes. Cos-j 
tumes modern. Plays 2 l A hours. ( 

It is altogether a gentle thing, this play. It is full of quaint humor, old j 
fashioned, homely sentiment, the kind that people who see the play will recal 
and chuckle over tomorrow and the next day. 

Miss Lippmann has herself adapted her very successful book for stage service; 
and in doing this has selected from her novel the most telling incidents, infectious 
comedy and homely sentiment for the play, and the result is thoroughly delightful! 

Price, 60 Cents. 

(The Above Are Subject to Royalty When Produced) 

ilh.im.ih ii »i n»— — — »— ill m^— — iw— — ■ — ■imi^nr iim«ri-i — l _^____________^ 

SAMUEL FRENCH, 28-30 West 38th Street, New York City 

Netf and Explicit Descriptive Catalogue Mailed Free on Request 



The Country Cousin 

A COMEDY IN FOUR ACTS 

By 
BOOTH TARKINGTON 

AND 

JULIAN STREET 



All Rights Reserved 



CAUTION. — Professionals and amateurs are hereby 
warned that "THE COUNTRY COUSIN," being 
fully protected .under the copyright laws of the 
United_ States of America, Great Britain and the 
Dominion of Canada, is subject to a royalty, and any 
one presenting the play without the consent of the 
authors or their authorized agents will be liable to 
the penalties by law provided. Applications for the 
amateur acting rights must be made to Samuel 
French, 28-30 West 38th Street, New York. Appli- 
cations for the professional acting rights must be 
made to George C. Tyler, New Amsterdam Theatre 
Building, West 42nd Street, New York. 



New York: 

SAMUEL FRENCH 

Publisher 

28-30 West 38th Street 



London : 

SAMUEL FRENCH, Ltd. 

26 Southampton Street 

Strand 



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Copyright, January 20, 1916 (under the title "The 
Ohio Lady"), by N. Booth Tarkington. 

Copyright, March 14, 1916 (under the title "The 

Ohio Lady"), by N. Booth Tarkington and 

Julian Street. 

Revised, 1917, by N. Booth Tarkington and Julian 

Street. 

Copyright, 1921, by N. Booth Tarkington and Julian 

Street. 

Also copyright in Great Britain and The Dominion 

of Canada, 1921, by N. Booth Tarkington and 

Julian Street. 



All Rights Reserved. 



Especial notice should be taken that the possession 
of this book without a valid contract for production 
first having been obtained from the publisher, con- 
fers no right or license to professionals or amateurs 
to produce the play publicly or in private for gain 
or charity. 

In its present form this play is dedicated to the 
reading public only, and no performance of it may 
be given except by special arrangement with Samuel 
French, 28-30 West 38th Street, New York. 

Section 28 — That any person who wilfully or for 
profit shall infringe any copyright secured by this 
act, or who shall knowingly and wilfully aid or abet 
such infringement shall be deemed guilty of a mis- 
demeanor, and upon conviction thereof shall be 
punished by imprisonment for not exceeding one 
year, or by a fine of not less than one hundred nor 
more than one thousand dollars, or both, in the dis- 
cretion of the court. 

Act of March 4, 1909. 



NOV -7 I 

CI.D 5SQB9 



k 



The following in a copy of the play-bill of the first per- 
formance of "THE COUNTRY COUSIN." 

GAIETY THEATRE, NEW YORK, Sept. 8, 1917 
Messrs. KLAW & ERLANGER 

AND 

GEORGE C. TYLER 
PRESENT 

ALEXANDRA CARLISLE 

1 

IN 
Booth Tarkington and Julian Street's 

NEW AMERICAN COMEDY IN FOUR ACTS 
ENTITLED 

"THE COUNTRY COUSIN" 
Staged by Robert Milton 



THE PLAYERS 

(In the order of their appearance.) 

Mrs. Howitt Miss Julia Stuart 

Eleanor Howitt Miss Marion Coakley 

Sam Wilson Mr. Donald Gallaher 

Nancy Price Miss Alexandra Carlisle 

George Tewksberry Reynolds, 3rd 

Mr. Eugene O'Brien 

Stanley Howitt .Mr. Arthur Forrest 

Athalie Wain wright ..Miss Louise Prussing 

Mrs. Jane Kinney Miss Eleanor Gordon 

Cyril Kinney Mr. Donald Foster 

Mrs. Maud Howitt Miss Clara Blandick 

Archie Gore .Mr. Charles Mackay 

Pruitt , Mr. George Wright, Jr. 

Blake Mr. Albert Tavernier 

The Time is 1916. 



THE SCENES 

ACT I. — The sitting-room at Mrs. Howitt's, Cen- 
terville, Ohio. A June morning. 

ACT II.— A "Villa" by the Sea. An August after- 
noon. 

ACT III. — Inside the "Villa." The same evening. 

ACT IV. — The same as Act III. The next morn- 
ing. 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 



ACT I 

Scene: Sitting-room at Mrs. Howitt's, Center- 
vilk, Ohio. A June morning. A pleasant, 
homelike, incongruous interior of the Eighties 
and Nineties. Two windows, rectangular ob- 
longs, plain (with no small panes) in back. 
Cream-colored shades and lace curtains. Door 
l.u. in l. wall, leading to a porch. Upper pari 
of door opaque frosted glass, designed 'with 
floral emblems. When the door is opened, bal- 
ustrade of porch seen and shrubberies close be- 
yond. ' Close foliage seen through windozvs. 
Door to interior R.c. Book shelves between 
windows and cornering upper r. wall and back; 
also down of door R.c. Wall paper figured 
in small, neutral design, quiet but not drab. 
Furniture Eastlake; rather nondescript, but 
comfortable and somewhat inane. No "Co- 
lonial" ; no wicker; no "Mission." Piano up 
R.c. dull blue "throw" over back zvith fringe. 
Wooden framed family photographs on piano. 
Black plaster or terra-cotta bust of Dante on 
book-shelves between windows. Other orna- 
ments on book-shelves; a couple of green 
bronze Pompeian lamps; small souvenir Ro- 
man columns; marble ; china candlesticks ; sea 
shells and a few small, baddish water-colors ; 
family photographs framed in wood and plush. 
Marble-topped center table with books and a 
china vase, empty. Large engraving of Gen- 

5 



6 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

eml Grant on wall over shelves between win- 
dows. Beneath it (on wall) a Civil War offi- 
cer s sword. Other engravings: "President 
Rutherford B. Hayes and his cabinet," "Battle 
of Gettysburg" "A Reading from Homer" 
Medium slow curtain on rise after piano has 
played introduction of "Absent." 
Discovered : Mrs. Howitt is seated at the piano, 
playing. She is a gentle but rather careworn 
forty-five; wears half -mourning . She is play- 
ing the air of the song "Absent." 

Eleanor r.c. She is a pretty young thing, 
altogether girlish and provincial. Her blue and 
white "Peter Thompson" suit is becoming 
enough but without "smartness" or style. Elea- 
nor seated on sofa r.c. with feet up. Bored 
zvith Mrs. Howitt's playing. Looks pleadingly 
at her as if begging her to stop. Mrs. Howitt 
continues playing — Eleanor stands it as long 
as possible- — gets up — goes to c. Gives a little 
jump — loo'' at Mrs. Howitt — then goes to 
bookcase c. — selects book — comes down l.c. 
— goes around couch l. and is about to sit when 
Sam's voice is heard off l. She puts fingers in 
her ears — squeals and jumps up and down in 
anger. The voice of Sam Wilson is heard 
calling, off. 

Sam. (Off) Oh, Eleanor! Oh, Eleanor! 
Come on out! 

^Eleanor, hearing Sam call, puts fingers in ears — 
Jumps up and down in anger.) 

Mrs. Howitt. (Still playing) Isn't that Sam 
Wilson calling 1 you, Eleanor? 

Eleanor. (Drily) Let him call ! (Throws her- 
self on couch — puts feet upon it) Mamma, I do 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 7 

wish you wouldn't play "Absent." You've been 
playing it so much lately. What's the matter with 
something 1 cheerf uller ? 

Mrs. H. (Her voice sad) , It isn't very cheerful, 
is it? 

Sam. (Off) Oh, Eleanor! Aren't you coming 1 
out? Oh, El — eanor! 

Eleanor. (Very much annoyed) Isn't he 
tedious ? 

BELL 

(A bell upon door l.u. rings; it is not an elec- 
tric bell, but one upon the door itself, rung by 
turning a knob outside. Mrs. Howitt stops 
playing, turns toward the door and after an in- 
stant's thought, half rises to go and open it.) 

Eleanor. I'll go, Mamma. It's only Sammy. 
(She crosses to door l.uJ 

Mrs. H. (Nervously. She watches the door ap- 
prehensively) Oh, all right, dear. 

Eleanor. (At door, alluding to the person out- 
side indifferently) Old thing! (Opens the door) 
What you want, Sam ? 

Sam. (Entering)- 'Lo, Eleanor. Good morn- 
ing, Mrs. Howitt. 

(He is nineteen; very boyish and of an intense look 
and manner; and profoundly serious; an Ohio 
State College student. Coat and trousers not 
new, and a little skimpy — high-school fashion; 
no waistcoat; no hat. Hair long, (< pompadour" 
on top; skinned to above the ears — mongolian 
fashion; blue and red bow tie under soft col- 
lar; one flank of latter rising against his cheek.) 

Eleanor. (Indifferently) What you want? 
Mrs. H. (Turning over some music at the piano 
where she remains seated) Good morning, Sammy. 



8 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Sam. (His )nanner is hurried and earnest) I 
Came over -(//<• crosses to Mrs. Howitt, lea-ring 
door open. Eleanor glares after him, tlien shuns 
door ) 1 came in here to see if T could borrow your 
copy of Shakespeare's Hamlet again. (Turning to 
tlte book she! res) It's for an oration. (Runs his 
hand through Jus hair, disarranging it.) 

Mrs. 11. Certainly, Sammy. 

( Sam reaches the shelves.) 

Fmanor. (No pause) What you want to be 
making orations in vacation for? 

SAM, (Back to front as he looks in shelves. 
Stooging) I got the future to think of, haven't I? 

I Set ions a ck. ) 

Eleanor, (Not pleased. Coming down l. Sits 
txi I Oh, mv ! 

Sam. (Stra ly, book in hand; 

argument to her. He speaks rap* 

v) You take the fellows that loaf all 

their vacation, where'll fhev be time I'm in politics. 

Congress? t*m gohV to get somewhere in this short 

we got, I tell you! More mildly, c 
'Mrs. Howrrr at c. I 1 get a lot ' Shakes 

he's 1 writer. Every now and then, when I'm 

workin on an oration I come gainst somep'n 

t — somep'n 1 cai n to work out 

right Well, sir, time and again, if 1 got a copy of 
Shakes e's got just what I want. 

's got ■: work r*n I 

Sam i) He 

is ! (This is 

Mrs. II. Y< cress. 

Sa 

Sam, to 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 9 

stand up there once, Mrs. Howitt, and tell 'em how 
to run this country ! Just a few minutes, that's all 
I'd ask! 

Eleanor. (Goes up L. Marveling at his con- 
ceit. Kneels on couch l. — speaking over back of 
it) You think you could tell 'em, do you, Sam ? In 
a few minutes? 

Sam. (Vehemently. Going toward her — pulling 
chair with him as he goes to l.cJ Me? Why, you 
could tell 'em ! Look what this Government's policy 
was in Central America! Look what that policy's 
been ever since the European conflict, the most de- 
structive known to man in all the ages, the most 
dangerous to the peace of these United States of 
America ! What was that policy, just let me ask 
you ? (Oratorically to Eleanor,) I ask you ! State 
the policy of (Broken speech.) 

Eleanor. (Crisply. Goes down l.J Oh, talk 
about batter cakes ! 

Mrs. H.. You mustn't say that, Eleanor. It's a 
good thing for a young man to take an interest in 
public things. 

Eleanor. (Coldly) He isn't a young man — 
yet. 

Sam. (Coming down l.c.J I may not have any 
great political power to-day, but I'm a citizen and I 
expect to have and express an opinion upon each 

and all questions of the hour 

^Eleanor. (Calmly) He always talks like this 
when he's working on one of his orations, -Mamma. 
His family pretty near die. 

Sam. (Grieved) Don't you take any interest 
in the affairs of your country, Eleanor? 

Eleanor. (With a little vanity) I finished an 
essay for the Girl's Economic Club yesterday : "Bi- 
ological Origins of Commercial Wars." My essay 
says: The present conflict which has now ravaged 
Europe for more than a year and seven months 



io THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Sam. (Always earnest) I beg to differ ! 
(^Eleanor starts to argue — Mrs. Howitt breaks in.) 

Mrs. H. (Still at piano. Faintly amused) 
What with, Sam? 

Sam. (Crossing to couch R.c, sits) I think a 
woman's position is the Home, not lecturing on 
Biology. 

Eleanor. (Derisively, crossing to chair l.c. — 
sits) But you just said (Broken speech.) 

Sam. (Interrupting) I want you to take an in- 
terest in public affairs and all questions of science 
and metaphysics, but I hold you should see every- 
thing like that through your husband's eyes. (Rises. 
Goes to her) Your place is preparing the Home, 
making it helpful to your husband while he wins 
his position on the — on the political ladder. Your 
work is to study to make domestic matter's yield to 
the hard, worldly struggle of your husband! 

Eleanor. (Quietly) Haven't got any. 

Sam. (Quietly and decidedly) You will have! 

Mrs. H. (Mildly) Not for several years, I 
hope, Sammy. 

Sam. (Goes to piano r.c. Holding book in his 
left hand and slapping it argumentativcly but 
lightly with his right, to emphasize Jiis points) I 
don't agree with you, Mrs. Howitt. I hold that if 
a woman is to marry an ambitious man, a man who 
means to make his way in the world in spite of even- 
opposition — I hold that that man and woman should 
marry young — young — (Going back to Eleanor ) — 
at the time when that man most needs the comfort 
of that woman's sympathy and domestic assistance ! 
(Raises book in his right hand, ) 

Eleanor. (Calmly) Is that the "Hamlet" you 
were looking for? 

Sam. (A little disconcerted, glancing at book to 



( 

THE COUNTRY COUSIN n 

see what it is) No. It's the West Virginia Cook- 
Book. (Goes up to bookcase c. — puts book back 
and takes another.) 

Eleanor. (Placidly explaining to her mother) 
He always likes to gesture with a book in his hand. 
Doesn't matter what it is. 

Sam. (Coming down to her. Beginning hotly 
and then tapering off) Eleanor — that's — (Goes 
down l.) — that's neither here nor there. 

Eleanor. (Placidly) Well, anyway, I don't 
think I'd ever be having a husband from this town. 

Sam. (Turns quickly — goes to her, speaks with 
energy) You know perfectly will that I intend to 
begin the practice of law in Columbus. I never 
dreamed of askin' you to settle down here. 

Eleanor. (Taken aback, derisive and incredu- 
lous) Asking me! Oh, my goodness ! 

Sam. (Somewhat astonished at what his im- 
petuosity has led him to say) Well (Pauses.) 

Eleanor. (Staring at him as a tittle girl stares 
at a boy who has done something awful) Sam Wil- 
son! You are the craziest (Gasps.) 

Sam. (Recovering himself, his manner is lofty, 
yet off-hand. Crosses down l.J Well, we'll let it 
go — for the present. 

Mrs. H. (Gravely. Rising, crosses to Eleanor, 
puts hand on her shoulder) I think I would, Sam ! 
Eleanor is (Broken speech.) 

Sam. (Becoming really dignified, gentle and sim- 
ple for the moment. Goes up to l. of EleanorJ 
She's young, I know, Mrs. Howitt. I didn't mean 
to carry it quite so far — not for the present. 

Eleanor. (Derisive) "For the present!" 
(Meaning "no use at any time." Rises — goes up R. 
to piano and strikes a discord. Sam tries to speak 
through this — can't — stops — Mrs. Howitt motions 
Eleanor to stop it. She does so — Sam continues) 

Sam. (Continuing, to Mrs. HowittJ Mrs. 



12 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Howitt, I don't believe in any man's livin' on his 
wife's money. The more ambitious that man is for 
himself, why, the less he ought to do such a thing". 
("Mrs. Howitt agrees with him — crosses r. to couch 
and sits. Sam follows — to back of table r.c.J I 
understand ole skinny Ben — (Snaps his fingers) — I 
beg your pardon, I mean Eleanor's Uncle Ben — I 
understand he left Eleanor a — substantial sum of 
money, and I realize that is a — a serious obstacle 
for an ambitious man to overcome, especially under 
— under the circumstances. But there are lawyers 
in this country to-day — (Becoming a little oratori- 
cal again) — whose income from practice is four 
times as large as the salary of the President of 
these United States, and what one man can do, 
Mrs. Howitt 

Eleanor. (Indicating the book) Is that the 
copy of "Hamlet"? 

Sam. (Looks at book. Indignantly) Yes, it is! 
(Goes few steps lJ 

Eleanor. (Rises. Coldly, not pettishly) Then 
you'd better study it instead of talking so much 
about me and the President of the United States ! 

Sam. (Hotly, crossing to her) I'm talking about 
myself! 

Eleanor. (Sharply) Yes! All the time! I 
never heard anybody that (Broken.) 

Mrs. H. (Gentle — but a little worried) You 
make me nervous, children. (Rises and goes to c. 
Turns) I'm going over to sister Sallie's. (Sam 
crosses to door l., opens it for her. Goes toward 
door, speaking as she goes) Cousin Nancy Price 
will be in from her farm presently. (Turns at 
door) Come for me as soon as Nancy gets here, 
Eleanor. (Exit u.l. Sam boxvs as she exits.) 

Eleanor. (As she goes around r. of piano) I 
will. Maybe I'll come before that ! (Sits on r. 
end of couch r.c. With a cold glance at SamJ 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 13 

Sam. (Closes door and comes down c. Approv- 
ingly, looktng after Mrs. HowittJ Your mother's 
a tactful woman ! She understood I wanted to be 
alone with you. 

Eleanor. (Scornfully amused) Poot! She 
didn't think anything about you at all! You're 
always thinking" people are thinking about you! 

Sam. (With mystic conviction) They are. 
(Going toward her a step) There are some people 
in this world, Eleanor, that people can't help think- 
ing about them; because they're different. (Going 
to her) You know yourself, I'm not like any of 
the other boys. 

Eleanor. They all claim you're not, Sam ! 

Sam. (Gravely, going to c. Looking after Mrs. 
HowittJ Yes, sir, your mother likes me. (Turns) 
I can feel things like that. (Coming toward her) 
She'd be glad — I can feel it — (Sits near Eleanor 
on couch) — she'd be glad if you and I were en- 
gaged ! 

Eleanor. (Decidedly) Well, she'll be gloomy, 
then! 

Sam. (As if inspired with prophecy) No, she 
won't ! Listen ! You think I'm conceited 

Eleanor. (Loudly protesting) Oh, no! 

Sam. Well, I'm not ! Look at that picture yon- 
der. (Pointing to Grant,) Who was he but a 
small-town boy from this State ? Look at that one ! 
(TIayes and his cabinet) Who was he but another 
small-town boy from out here? (Sits on footstool 
facing her, telling them off on his fingers) Who 
was James A. Garfield, William Tecumseh Sher- 
man, John Sherman, William McKinley, William 
H. Taft, Theodore Roosevelt (Broken.) 

Eleanor. (Crying out) Roosevelt isn't from 
Ohio! (Rises and crosses to l.c. — sits. ) 

Sam. (Unabashed, rapidly. Snaps h ; s fingers ) 
I know it. I got him mixed in from another oration 



i 4 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

I'm writing-. (Rises and goes c.) But I mean those 
men didn't get where they got without a struggle and 
/ expect to have a struggle, but I'm goin' to be 
Somebody in these United States of America, and 
you bet nothing- on earth is going to stop me! 
( Pause) Don't you believe it? 

Eleanor. (Awed by Jus intense belief, in spite 
of herself) I almost do! 

Sam. (Quickly) When I get to be a United 
States Senator you won't think I'm conceited. 

Eleanor. (Promptly) I will, too! 

Sam. (Shrewdly) That proves you think I am 
going to be one. I knew you believed in me as much 
us 1 do myself ! 

Elk an or. (Rises. SJiarply) I do not! 

Sam (Vehement and oratorical) Why. of 
course you do! (Bell. The door-bell rings, but 
Sam w so vehement that neither of them notices the 
ring ) How could a man of any gumption be a 
citizen of this country without wanting to help run 
ft? | Pointing his remarks with Jiis finger) You 
know as well as I do I'm goin' to be one of the one9 
that do. 1 You know (Broken.) 

Eleanor. (Sharply. She backs away indig- 
nantly ) I don't anything of the sort! 

Sam. Yes, you do! (Belt rings again unno- 
ticed. Bell ) And yon know whatever / get to be 
you'll be there with me (Broken.) 

Eleanor. (Shouting) I will not! 

Sam. Yes, you will! I'll take you up and up 
with me, and you'll be ever thoughtful of my inter- 
ests, ever faithful, ever ready, ever [Broken.) 

Eleanor. ( Crosses to mantel l. — tJ:e couch be- 
tween them. Shouting, all :■■: a breath) Ever sick 
at the stummick if you talk like this any more! 

Sam, (Vehemently) Nothing of the kind! 

(Lee roer back uch. He ■■ tes this, 

lANO* Protesting) "I will. too. be!" (Ad lib; 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 15 

both talking at the same time) How'd you like to 
be a Representative's wife — a Congressman's wife — 

a Senator's wife — wife of the Pres (And the 

door l.u. opens — Nancy standing upon the thresh- 
old for a moment ; then entering. She is the best- 
looking, intelligent girl in the United States; about 
twenty-six, gravely humorous, quiet, and fearlessly 
cordial, though not bubbling or enthusiastic. She 
wears a pretty summer gown; not noticeably "smart" 
in make, but of a thought for its becomingness and 
its summeriness! and her hat is broad, as against 
strong sun. Over each arm she carries the handle of 
a large basket. One basket is topped with a white 
napkin, the other overflows with daisies and sweet- 
peas. She stands unnoticed for a moment, looking 
on. Then she speaks quietly.) 

Nancy. Won't you have a strawberry? (Comes 
down l. between them. The altercation ceases, 
Eleanor runs to her, happily; kisses her) 

Eleanor. Cousin Nancy ! Strawberries ? 
(Reaches into basket— picks out a berry — eats it.) 

Nancy. (Placing basket on table) Here. 
(Takes a box of strazvberries from under the 
flowers) I brought them in from my farm to your 
mother. Honest, fat ones, aren't they ? (^Eleanor 
eats, rapturously) I shipped four hundred quarts 
last week. (Quietly, matter-of-fact. Her manner 
is thoughtful. Goes to table R.c. — puts baskets 
down.) 

Eleanor. (Eating) You raised 'em yourself, 
Nancy ? 

Nancy. Well, I sat on the porch and read the 
"Farmer's Annual" and George Meredith — and my 
farm-hands did most of the work; still I think I 
can claim the strawberries. (Touching the other 
basket. Eleanor follows her to c. Going front of 
couch and Sam J And these chickens and eggs and 
honey and Alderney butter, too. (Puts flowers and 



16 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

box of strawberries on table) Your mother wrote 
me to come in, I thought her note seemed wor- 
ried (Going to Eleanor. Connecting the two 
thoughts) What have you been doing, Eleanor? 

Eleanor. Nothing. (With a look at Sam J Just 
poking. What else does anybody do here? Some 
day I hope to see a place with a little more life in. 
it ! I'm going to, too ! 

Nancy. (Indicating baskets) Better have your 
cook put all these on ice. 

Eleanor. (Hastening off R. with the two bas- 
kets) Oh, the goodies ! 

Nancy. It's Sammy Wilson, isn't it? 

Sam. (Gloomy) Yes, ma'am. 

Nancy. (Arranging flowers on table R.c.j I 
thought so, out you all grow so fast, nowadays — 
and you've been away to school — or college — haven't 
you? 

Sam. Yes, ma'am. 

Nancy. (Crosses to him. with box) Won't you 
have a strawberry ? 

( Eleanor has left the box upon the table.) 

Sam. Yes, ma'am, thank you. (He eats one. 
No pause.) 

Nancy. (Crosses back to table) I remember 
when you were a little boy, you used to do declama- 
tions so well. 

Sam. (Mouthful of berries. Becoming inter- 
ested and earnest) I do yet. I think oratory is a 
great power for good. I mean to employ it — in my 
— career. (Puts chair behind him — leans back on 
it. Career with a little added solemnity.) 

Nancy. (Hands him basket of berries — he takes 
a handful. Gravely) I shall certainly come to hear 
you. 

Eleanor. (Running in r. with bowl for flowers) 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 17 

Mamma said to call her soon's you got here. She's 
over at Aunt Sallie's. 

(Rushes to table, takes a handful of strawberries 
with her. Turning to go, almost runs into Sam 
— she steps around him and exits l.u.e. — Sam 
starts to follow her — gets to door — stops — 
thinks a moment — turns. She places two straw- 
berries in her mouth as, she goes. She sings 
cheerily, hurrying off l.u. She has left bozvl, 
and Nancy arranges flowers.) 

Sam. ("Nancy goes to couch r.c. and sits — ar- 
ranges flowers — picks 1 up newspaper from table r.c. 
— spreads it on stool. Abruptly) Miss Price, I 
know how all this family look up to you and de- 
pend on your advice, and (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Takes bowl from table, puts it beside 
her on couch. Amused and surprised) No ! Do 
they ? 

Sam. (Coming down c, leans back against chair) 
Never heard of any of 'em bein' sick — or worried 
about anything, they didn't some of 'em say, "Send 
for Cousin Nancy." This whole cummunity looks 
up to you. I guess it's because you're only a woman, 
but been makin' a farm pay. 

Nancy. (Takes pair of folding scissors from 
pocket — cuts string around flowers — also stems — 
and sorts them) I'm glad there's a reason. 

Sam. People thought you were so strong for es- 
says on Michelangelo and Emerson at the Woman's 
Club your farm'd just turn out to be a fad, but 
when you got a bigger corn profit last year than 
anybody in the country, they changed their minds. 
(Going to table R.c.j Then, the way you stick to 
drivin' those fast trotters to your light surrey in- 
stead of runnin' some flivver automobile has raised 
you higher than ever in this community. 

Nancy. (Gravely) Sam, are you just practic- 



i8 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

ing being- a politician or do you want me to do some- 
thing for you? 

Sam. (Promptly) I certainly do. (Leaning 
over tabic.) 

Nancy. (Nodding. Puts flowers in bowl) All 
right. 

Sam. When ole skinny Ben — (Snaps fingers — 
backs away a step) — I beg pardon — I mean, when 
your Uncle Ben died last year he left Eleanor quite 
some money in her own right, didn't he? 

Nancy. Yes. 

Sam. Well, I believe that a man ought to earn 
as much as his wife's got, before he marries her. 
What I want you to do first — is to please tell me 
just how much Eleanor's uncle left her, because I 
expect to earn that much before we consider things 
settled. A man mustn't be a dependent on a woman, 
must he ? 

Nancy. No. 

Sam. Well, how much is Eleanor worth ? 

Nancy. (Gently) About four hundred thou- 
sand dollars. 

Sam. (Long pause — he looks at her. Szvallozv- 
ing. Quietly — leaning toward her) What? 

Nancy. I think it's a little over four hundred 
thousand. 

Sam. (Slowly goes down l. — puts one finger on 
his right ear. Bending it down— -lets it snap back 
j — does it again) Well, of course, that's goin' to take 
me some time. (Recovering himself — turns and goes 
toward her to c.) I don't expect to start right out 
and make that much in a few months. All I want is 
to know that when I do have it, there won't be any 
family opposition. 

Nancy. (Gently. Rises — goes down r. — around 
piano to upper end. Puts bozvl of flowers on lower 
end of piano) I'm sure there wouldn't — by then, 
Sam ! 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 19 

Sam. You could settle that. If you were for 
me, Eleanor's mother and the whole family connec- 
tion would sure be for me. 

Nancy. (Coming down to table r.c.J It might 
depend on the kind of man you turn out to he — by 
that time. 

Sam. (Going to her. Beginning easily) Oh, by 

that time, I'll be — I'll be — ah (He pauses in 

modesty.) 

Nancy. (Finishing for him) United States 
Senator? 

Sam. (Firmly) Well, why not? 

Nancy. All right. (Goes back to couch — picks 
up papers and tidies up. Picks up small flowers.) 

Sam. (Change of tone) See here, Miss Price, 
it's a delicate subject — but Eleanor's father wouldn't 
have anything to say about her marrying, would 
he? 

Nancy. (Gravely) Possibly he might. 

Sam. (Surprised and troubled) I thought Mrs. 
Howitt got a divorce from him when Eleanor was 
only three years old, and he never even saw her from 
that time. 

Nancy. Eleanor's of age now. She might de- 
cide to take her father's advice before marrying. 
(Puts a few flowers on table.) 

Sam. How could she, when she never sees him? 

Nancy. He'd have a right to see her, now that 
she's of age. 

Sam. (Turns away l. a few steps — same ear 
bus. Frowning) I don't like it. (Turns) I be- 
lieve when a man's divorced and the court gives a 
child to the mother, he ought to keep away. 

Nancy. (Faintly amused) Well, he has — for 
over seventeen years! (Goes up c. — puts papers in 
waste basket.) 

Sam. (Crosses to chair l.c v puts one knee on it) 
He married again, didn't he ? 



20 . THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Nancy. Fve heard so. 

Sam. (Gloomily) Hm-m! Oh, dear! (Sits) 
That's a whole new set of relatives I suppose would 
have their influence either for or against me. (Rises) 
But anyhow, you'll be for me. 

Nancy. (Tucking flowers in her belt. Gently — 
coming down to him) You mustn't count on it, 
Sam — not till you're a good United States Senator 
— and worth four hundred thousand dollars. (Her 
manner with him is not arch nor indulgent nor 
"kidding." Her manner is always free of such 
things. Puts a flower in his buttonhole.) 

Sam. Wait a minute. What do you call a 
"good" United States Senator, — or Congressman? 

Nancy. One that cares more about his country 
than getting elected. 

Sam. Well, I mean if things looked like I was 
going to be one pretty certain, I wouldn't believe in 
waiting any longer. 

Nancy. (Going back to table R.c Estimating 
him) I don't believe you would. 

Sam. All I need is the time. I'm the raw ma- 
terial, ain't I? 

Nancy. (Smilingly) I'm sure of that. 

Sam. Then you might as well be for me right 
now. You will be some day; so why wait? (Pats 
him on shoulder.) 

'^Mrs. Howitt enters L.u v followed by Eleanor. J 

Mrs. H. (Goes to Nancy and kisses her; man- 
ner is anxious and hurried. Sam watches Eleanor, 
who goes down L., picks up book from couch where 
she has left it — goes to lower end of mantel and sits. 
Sam sits on arm of couch l. — watching her — she 
ignores him. Begins to read) Nancy ! Thank you 
for the chickens and eggs and butter and honey and 
strawberries and flowers ! You always bring chick- 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 21 

ens and eggs and butter and honey and fruit and 
flowers ! 

Nancy. (Seriously) Everybody lives too much 
on canned goods in the country now-a-days. 

Mrs. H. (Looks at Eleanor. In a hushed voice) 
"Something's happened." Oh, I do need you! 
(Turning. Goes to table R.c. — picks up book) 
Eleanor, I borrowed this "Astronomy" from old 
Professor Hobart of the High School. I wish you'd 
take it back for me. (Gives her a book from table.) 

f Nancy goes r., taking off hat — puts it on piano — 

by flowers.) 

Eleanor. (Plaintive. Going to her at l.c.J He 
lives way at the other side of town. You don't 
mean ■ (Broken.) 

Mrs. H. I wish you'd take it to him right away, 
dear. (Eleanor goes to door up l. Pauses — then 
gentle — seeing the anxious look on Sam's face) 
Don't you want to go with her, Sam? 

Sam. (Smiles, for the first time. He grins) Yes, 
ma'am. (Hurrying up to door.) 

Eleanor. (Seriously and plaintively objecting) 
I won't go with him unless you make him promise 
to talk about something beside himself. 

"Sam. (With a gleam of intelligence) I only do 
that because if we talk about you I'd say too much ! 

Eleanor. (Quickly, approvingly) You have got 
a glimmer of sense, sometimes, Sam! 

Mrs. H. Run, children! 

Sam. (Obediently) Yes, ma'am. 

(Exit Eleanor and Sam, l.u.). Mrs. Howttt in 

chair l.c.J 

Nancy. (Back of piano — goes to Mrs. Howitt. 
Seriously) What is it, Aunt Ellen? 



22. THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Mrs. H. (Sinking into chair l.c.J Eleanor's 
father! Stanley Howitt! 

Nancy. (Very serious) He's written again? 
^Mrs. Howitt nods) Without your answering his 
other (Broken.) 

Mrs. H. (In a stricken voice) He came to-day, 
himself. 

Nancy. He's in this town now? 

Mrs. H. (Almost overcome) He's — he's at the 
hotel. 

Nancy. (Seriously) Then whatever the wrong 
he did you in the old days, Aunt Ellen, I think it 
will be expiated, if he has to put in any time at the 
National House! (Change of tone) You haven't 
seen him? 

Mrs. H. (Crying out) No! I couldn't! I tele- 
phoned to him from sister Sallie's. That's what I 
went there for. I told him he could come here and 
someone would talk to him. That's what I got 
you here for. 

Nancy. (Crisply) All right. 

Mrs. H. (Helplessly) You always know what 
to do. 

Nancy. (Putting out her hand— -Mrs. Howitt 
takes it) What do you want me to do? 

Mrs. H. (In a despairing appeal) Nancy, don't 
you think there's a chance we could keep him from 
seeing Eleanor at all? 

Nancy. (Puts her arm around Mrs. Howitt. 
Decisively) No. She's of age, and you can't pre- 
vent it unless she refuses to see him. 

Mrs. H. (Unhappily) She cut his picture out of 
one of the New York fashion papers! (With gen- 
tle bitterness) For years she's been thinking about 
him more and more. I know it ! 

Nancy. (In a business-like tone) That settles 
it then. 






THE COUNTRY COUSIN 23 

Mrs. H. What? (Meaning, "What does it set- 
tler) 

Nancy. If she's been making* a romance of him, 
the sooner you have her see him the better. 

Mrs. H. (Weakly protesting) Oh, no! 

Nancy. You've never accused him of any great 
crime to the family, Aunt Ellen (Broken.) 

Mrs. H. (Interrupting) He's just weak! And 
he's married again — we don't know zvhat kind or 
who (Quick and disjointed.) 

Nancy. Eleanor will have to work out the truth 
for herself. 

Mrs. H. That frightens me! 

Nancy. He's of some consequence in the world, 
at least. I've seen his name (Broken.) 

Mrs. H. But that means so little! 

Nancy. When's he coming to the house? 

Mrs. H. (Hurried and troubled. Rises) He 
said he'd start right up here. That's why I got 
Eleanor off so quickly. 

Nancy. (Quickly) Get her back as quickly as 
you can. 

Mrs. H. (Appealing) Oh, Nancy, can't I keep 
her from him? 

Nancy. (Taking both her hands. Quickly) 
He's here to see her, and he'll do it ! Then if she 
finds out you've been trying to prevent it, she'll be 
resentful at you. 

Mrs. H. (Quavering) But we don't know what 

he'll want! He might persuade her to go Oh, 

Nancy, I'm frightened! He'd fascinate her — he's 
just exactly the kind of man to be so well-preserved 
he wouldn't look within twenty years of MY age! 
That would be just LIKE him ! 

Nancy. He can't WIN her by merely looking 
YOUNG! 

Mrs. H. Looking young APPEALS to the 



24 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

young and he (In great agitation) You don't 

know what I'm so afraid of ! 

Nancy. (Sharply) Yes, I do. But it can't be 
helped. 

MRS. H. But we might (BELL. Bell rings 

— she utters a subdued shriek. Then getting her 
breath — low tone — going toward door L.J He'd just 
have time to get here. I know it is. 

Nancy. (Grasps her hand and leads her r. be- 
hind piano) You can't speak to him? 

Mrs. H. (With horror) Oh, no! 

Nancy. Then go out the side way. M} r surrey's 
out there and old John's driving. Jump in and bring 
Eleanor back. She can't have gone more than a 
couple of squares. 

Mrs. H. (In complete distress) I'll do what- 
ever you say. * 

(Exit r. Nancy comes down r. around front of 
couch and goes to the door up l. and opens it.) 

Nancy. (Not as a question) Will you come in, 
please? 

(George enters — a superior and triumphant youth 
of twenty-eight; very smart, half-Boston 
English, yet altogether a New Yorker. His 
accent is Anglicised heavily. He wears a smart 
sack suit, carries a soft Jiat and wears glo: 

George. Ah — this is where Miss Eleanor Howitt 
lives ? 

Nancy. (Surprised and puzzled by George's 
youth, incredulous) Yes, she lives here. 

George. Do you mind telling her her father is 
here? 

Nancy. (Slowly accepting him as Howitt) 
Oh! Yes, of course. ^Yon't you sit down? (In- 
dicating chair L.cJ 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 25 

George. (Meaning "No") Thanks. (Coming 
down l. front of mantel.) 

Nancy. I — I'm Eleanor's cousin, Nancy 
Price. 

George. Really I'm here, you know, to — ah — 
to (Pause.) 

Nancy. (Coining down to chair l.cJ You'll 
have only a few moments to wait. The fastest 
trotters in the country have gone for Eleanor and 
she wasn't far. Of course, one can't g?t very far 
in Centerville! 

George. No ; I suppose not. What name was it 
— Center ? (Coming down a bit.) 

Nancy. (Astonished) Centerville ! 

George. (Going to her) Yes, I remember. 
That's the name of this place, Centerville. Ah — 
what State is it in? 

Nancy. Good gracious! Don*t you know? 
Ohio ! 

George. Oh, yes, of course. I motored out 
from New York, you see, but I didn't hold the map. 
I — ah — drove. When one's driving- oneself one has 
so many things on one's mind — and your States 
out this way do seem rather mixed up. Centerville 
in the State of Ohio-. (Turns away l. a few steps) 
Yes, of course. Curious little place — (Seeing glass 
case over wax flowers) — such odd people ! 

Nancy. (Drily) Are we? Of course, we don't 
seem odd to us! 

George. (Turns hack again to her) Oh, very 
worthy ! Quite so ! I've only been here a couple of 
hours, you see ! I mean : what a strange life it must 
be! (Turns l. — around couch and up l v looking 
at mantel ornaments. ) 

Nancy. (Thoughtfully) I suppose so. (Broken.) 

George. Funny old natives and all that, I dare 
say. 

Nancy. (A little wistfully) We're all natives 



26 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

here. When the apple trees are in bloom in every- 
body's yard, why, it's very — it's very pleasant. 

George. (Going down l. — looks at flowers in 
case again. Drily) I see. Depend on apple- 
trees blossomin' for entertainment ! Must be a lively 
place in autumn ! 

Nancy. (Smiling faintly) Oh, well — we have 
our thoughts — sometimes they blossom, too! 

George. (Somewhat bored, crossing r. — looking 
at engravings on wall) Oh, no doubt! They'd have 
plenty of time to — out here so far away from things, 
I dare say ! However, I saw several Fords on the 
principal street, going- quite rapidly. (Stops extreme 
r. — turns to her ) And there must have been at least 
nine men in their shirt-sleeves sitting in chairs 
in front of the hotel gesturing — oh, quite 
noisv 

Nancy. (Laughs. Coming c. front of chair) 
Yes, they are. lately. They're talking about the pros- 
pect of rousing the country if it has to be roused 
again, as it was in sixty-one. We'll find the place 
lively enough if it comes to that. 

George. (At extreme r.J No doubt — sJiorely. 
(Turns away — looks up at picture of Grant. ) 

Nancy (Repeating it — half to herself) Shore- 
ly — f (Noting his pronunciation ; she is puzzled and 
the least bit nettled, but speaks coolly ) I suppose 
our pronunciation seems odd to you, too? 

Nancy. (Noting his pronunciation : she is puz- 
zled and the least bit nettled, but speaks coolly) I 
suppose our pronunciation seems odd to you, 
too? 

George. (Turning back again to her ) It is 
rather quaint to hear a dialect with so much of the 
letter "R." (Pronounces it "ah.") 

Nancy. (Quietly) Yes. We haven't murdered 

it 

George. I beg your pardon. 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 27 

Nancy. We believe in the whole alphabet, just 
as the French and Italians do. 

George. (Faintly amused; polite tone) I sup- 
pose you have quite a lot of French and Italian 
society. 

Nancy. (Crisply) Yes, I have some working 
for me on my farm. (Sits chair L.cJ 

George. (Blankly) Ah — you were alluding to 
local superiority in the matter of the letter "ft," I 
believe. 

Nancy. When you talk over the telephone, don't 
you find it easier to understand a person who hasn't 
lost his "R's" ? Yet thousands of people are able 
to offer a missing" "R" as the only sign of their 
culture. 

George. (Bored. Not noticing her — he goes up 
r. — around back of piano to window R.C. ) Stremely 
interestin' all this to me ! Always heard people out 
this way great on writing essays for "literary clubs" 
or reading something "deep" and making political 
orations. Hadn't got over Daniel Webster yet ! 

Nancy. (Gently) Perhaps it's only because 
we're so eager to be part of the world. 

George. (Crossing back of her chair — comes 
down l. of her — back against couch l. Superior and 
amused, yet bored) ' The "world"? Well, that does 
seem rather a trip — from here? 

Nancy. (With feeling) You mean we're pro- 
vincial — and you're right — we are. No, we haven't 
got over Daniel Webster yet ! You see, we can only 
write club essays about the things you have and do. 
W r e have so little and you have everything. You 
have living opera and we have opera sung by a 
needle ! You have picture galleries — and we have 
picture shows ! 

George. Rather think you have the advantage 
there ! 

Nancy. Ah! But the shops! We know the 



23 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

names of them, even though we've never seen them 
— and we know that great skyline of yours striking 
up from the river — so high that clouds break against 
it. 

George. (Goes l. around couch and up — back 
to mantel. Vaguely surprised and superior) Oh, 
yes, very much so and so forth. But we rather take 
our skyline as a matter-of-course. One doesn't 
notice it often, you see 

Nancy. (Rises — steps toward him. Mastering 
a sudden indignation with him ) If you should per- 
suade Eleanor to go with you, I hope you won't keep 
her from "noticing it!" 

George. (Scene played over back of couch l.) 
Vm sure / don't care what she notices ! 

Nancy. (Astonished) You don't? 

George. Why should I ? She may be very 
charming but as I've never seen the young woman 
in my life I don't know why I (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Astonished ) Wiry, you saw her when 
she was a baby! 

George. I think it impossible : she must have 
been a baby when I was a boy in prep, school, and 
nobody brings babies to show 'em to prep, school 
boys. 

Nancy. (Exclaiming. Packs away — sits in chair 
i..c.) T thought you were too well-preserved to be 
Aunt Ellen's husband! 

George. "Well-preserved !" What a remarkable 
remark ! 

Nancy. (With decision, assuringly ) You're not 
"Mr. Howitt! (Stares at him angrily. ) 

George. Certainly not! I was going to take a 
motor trip: didn't care where; and he said: Why 
not motor him out West? He's sitting out in the 
car in front. Naturally he didn't want any awk- 
ward encounters in this house, so he sent me in to 
see 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 29 

Nancy. (Staggered) "Sent" you? Are you his 
chauffeur? 

George. (Turns azvay — faces front — then back 
to her. Quickly and compassionately, though stung) 
No. No, I'm not his chauffeur. It's my car. 
There's a chauffeur in it. too. He sits behind when 
I drive. I'm an acquaintance of Howitt's. I play 
golf and bridge with Howitt, hut I'm not Howitt and 
I'm not even his chauffeur 

Nancy. (Mortified and nettled, Rises — goes R.) 
I thought you were Eleanor's father! That's why I 
talked to you about — East and West ! 

George. (Going dozun extreme l. Lightly) 
Well, one does expect anything in these out-of-the- 
way places. 

Nancy. (Turns to him. Not changing her at- 
titude) Oh ! 

George. (Crossing to c.) All the same, poor old 

Howitt is waiting out there in the sun 

(Broken. ) 

Mrs. H. (Off r.) Nancy? (She enters r. She 
has been weeping) Nancy 

Nancy. (Grimly, going to Mrs. Howitt,) This 
is someone who came with Mr. Howitt. 

( George turns away — goes up l.c. — looks out of 
window — then down l.c.J 

Mrs. H. He and Eleanor are sitting in an auto- 
mobile in front, talking. When I brought her, she 
saw him — she knew him from his picture — and she 
ran to him ! (Almost sobs) They'd better come in 
instead of sitting out there. If this is a friend of his 
would you ask him to ask them to come in? (Turns 
back to door r. Stands about to exit r.) 

Nancy. (Dryly, after a short pause, staring at 
George J Be kind enough to do what she says. 

George. (Starting) Oh, I say! 



30 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Nancy. (Going toward him to c. Crisply) One 
must expect "anything in these out-of-the-way 
places !" 

George. (Coldly) Rath-<?rr. (Opens door l., 
calling) I say, Howitt! 

Howitt. (In distance) "Yes." 

George. The people of the house say you're to 
come in. (Steps oat, Nancy sending a fiery gtance 
after him. He calls off) Yes, it's quite all right! 
Quite oh ! 

Nancy. (With compressed lips, crosses rapidly 
to Mrs. Howitt J Come on, Aunt Ellen! (Ex- 
eunt R.) 

George. (Stepping in l.) Yes. Quite ! (Speaks 
to off l.) The young- woman's gone, too. Said she 
ran a farm, and I should think so ! (Then as Elea- 
nor quickly enters, followed by Howitt to c.) I'll 
be off. My turn to sit in the car. (Exits R. closing 
door after him.) 

(Eleanor is excited and flushed. She turns to- 
Howitt c. and offers both her hands. He 
takes them, smiling. He is a handsome man of 
fifty; very smart, wears a grayish sack suit; 
soft straw hat; gray silk gloves. Howitt puts 
hat on windowseat up l.c. ) 

Eleanor. ( Eleanor and Howitt remain up c.) 
I didn't think I'd be — embarrassed — when I met you 
— but I guess I was ! (He steps back from her td 
look at her.) 

Howitt. You're — you're just as fetching as — 
as you were when you were three years old ! I've 
kept your picture on my desk! 

Eleanor. How dear! 

Howitt. You're charming! 

Eleanor. (Flashing a happy look up, then shyly 
down again) Oh, no! 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 31 

Ho witt. (With husky enthusiasm) Just give 
you a month or two with the right crowd and let 
Maud have a word to say about your clothes ! Maud 
knows ■ (Broken.) 

Eleanor. (Happy and reassured) Who's Maud, 
Papa? 

Howitt. (Going dowwL.c. a bit) "Papa!" By 
George, how natural that comes ! 

Eleanor. (Going down to c.) Who's Maud, 
Papa — dear? 

Ho witt. (Laughing) Maud's my wife — your 
stepmother, dear. 

Eleanor. (Going down r.c. Naively, trustfully 
questioning) But I wouldn't like her. 

Howitt. (Going to her, taking her hands. 
Laughing) Of course you will. (Huskily) You 
have thought about me — sometimes — all these years 
you were growing up? 

Eleanor. Have If 

Howitt. (Dropping her hands. Biting his Up) 
I dare say you weren't told much about me. Pleas- 
ant things, that is 

Eleanor. (Quickly) Oh, nothing at all, Papa. 
Mamma never (Broken.) 

Howitt. Your mother told you why she 

(Broken.) 

Eleanor. (With more emphasis) Nothing- at 
all, Papa. 

Howitt. Eleanor, I don't blame anybody for 
what happened. The truth is your mother and I 
simply didn't speak the same language: that's all 
there was to it. We were not the same tribe ! 

Eleanor. (Eagerly) I understand. I really 
<lo — already — Papa ! 

Howitt. (Fondly) How ? 

Eleanor. Oh, you're a man of the world, Papa, 
just as I dreamed you'd be. I knew! 

Howitt. Eleanor, you're going to see the 



32 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

"world!" Won't you like meeting some Real Peo- 
ple away from this stuffy little backwoods prov- 
ince (Broken.) 

Eleanor. (Surprised, but pleased) Is it back- 
woods, Papa? They all think they're up-to- 
date! (A little defensively) We've got a new 

library and the State Biological Laboratory 

(Broken.) 

Howitt. She's had you for seventeen years. 
Are you coming with mef 

Eleanor. But I'm such a country jay ! 

Howitt. (Tilts up her chin — smiles at her hap- 
pily) You darling! 

Eleanor. (Taking his hand in both of hers) 
Papa ! You know what I've always wanted ? To 
spend a summer at the seashore — not a boarding- 
house or a hotel — but a cottage — a real grand cot- 
tage — a — a — villa ! You know, with pictures of me 
in the papers holding a dog — or looking at horses 
jumping — like the one I saw of you! 

Howitt. (Laughing, crosses her to couch R.J 
Oh, Maud and I don't quite have villas, dear. We 
were house-partying then. 

Eleanor. (Goes to chair l.c. and sits. Excit- 
edly) Oh, Papa ! Couldn't you and I have a house- 
party like that ? 

Howitt. (Going to her) Dear, my friends are 
trie "Right Sort," but financially I'm only a very 
junior partner in a broker's firm. 

Eleanor. (Gaily) But look at all the money 
I've got from good old Uncle Ben's will ! It's every 
bit my own, but mamma's always talking about in- 
vesting — investing even the income from it. If I'm 
with you, you'll let me do whatever I like with it, 
won't you? (Affirmative.) 

Howitt. Yes, — I will. I've always believed 
money was meant to enjoy. Eleanor, I hate hoard- 
ing and this early settler over-thriftiness one finds 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 33 

out here. I hate puritanism, provincialism and pio- 
neers ! 

Eleanor. (Rises and goes to him. Gleefully) 
So do I ! 

Howitt. (Taking her hands) By Jove! We 
are sympathetic — aren't we? When can you be 
ready to start ? 

Eleanor. (Breathlessly serious) Oh, do you 
really want me? 

Howitt. (Beaming) Indeed I do ! Can you 
start by evening? My friend that motored me out 
here says he'll die if he can't be moving back East 
again! Won't it be a lovely trip for us? We can 
start before dusk — it'll be moonlight — and reach 
Cleveland by midnight — and 

Eleanor. (Delighted and stunned) Oh! 

Howitt. Why not? 

Eleanor. (With d sudden happy idea) Papa! 
If we could get Cousin Nancy on our side, she'd 
make it all smooth with Mamma. We depend so 
on Nancy. 

Howitt. (Frowning a little) Why? 

Eleanor. (Brightly) Oh, we always have. 
Papa ! After we've got our "villa" and our house- 
party, we'll ask her! Won't we make good old 
Nancy open her eyes ? She's lovely, Papa ! She's 
a farmer 

Howitt. Dear, that's just what I've come for — 
to get you away from the farmers. Will you be 
ready to go 'to-night ? (Taking her hands.) 

Eleanor. (Excited) Let's call Cousin Nancy! 
It all depends on whether she'll help us with 

Mamma (Runs to r.e v calling) Nancy ! 

Cousin Nancy! Nancy (Howitt goes l. to 

mantel — looks at clock — compares time with his 
watch, as though anxious to be gone. Then comes 
down l. Turns back to r.c.J She's coming 

Nancy. (Entering r.e., gravely to r.c.) Yes ? 



34 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Eleanor. This is Nancy. (Howitt bows. 
Eleanor puts arms around her waist) Nancy, 
papa wants me to go with him ! To motor— — 

Nancy. Perhaps you haven't had much time to 
think (Broken.) 

Eleanor. (Quickly, rather sharply) I haven't? 
I've been thinking of this very thing for years! 
(Runs to Howitt — drags him by arm to l.c.) Papa ! 
Talk to her! 

Howitt. I scarcely see the need of talking to 
anyone but you. 

Eleanor. (Impetuously) No — make her see, 
so that she'll ■ (Broken.) 

Howitt. (Turning to NancyJ Surely anyone 
would understand the enormous advantage for Elea- 
nor. Could anyone question that it's time for her 

to go out into a larger and brighter life 

(Broken.) 

Nancy. (Quickly, troubled but not skeptical) 
You could give her a larger and brighter life. 

Howitt. (Going on) Naturally she'd meet my 
friends. She'd learn something of cosmopolitan 
life ; meet people of some distinction — (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Agreeing, with feeling) Ah, yes ; that 
would be worth while! To meet people of real dis- 
tinction ; the men and women of art and letters ! 

Eleanor. (Excitedly) Well, do you want me 
to be kept out of that? (Goes to her pleadingly ) 
And I'm going to meet 'em, too ! Nancy ! (Puts 
arms around her waist) He's promised me we'll 
have a house-party in a — a villa ! Nancy, I'll send 
you photographs of it and I'll invite (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Thoughtfully ) How soon do you 

(Broken.) 

Eleanor. He wants me to go right away ! He 
has to — because his friend can't stand 

Nancy. (Quickly) You couldn't. You haven't 
got clothes for (Broken.) 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 35 

Howitt. (A little peremptorily) I think that 
needn't trouble us. All she needs is a traveling 
dress. She will have advice from my — ah — advice 
in New York about ordering gowns. 

Nancy. Her mother (Broken.) 

Howitt. My dear Miss Price. The decision 
rests entirely with Eleanor herself. (Pause — fac- 
ing front.) 

Eleanor. (Determinedly) And I'm going, 
Nancy. fHownr, relieved, goes up l.c. — gets hat 
from windowseat and comes down l.c. a fezu steps. 
Eleanor going to Nancy,) It's glorious ; we're go- 
ing in papa's friend's motor (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Decisively, crosses to Howitt — Elea- 
nor follows her) Will you go to the car in front 
and wait, Mr. Howitt? 

Howitt. (Stiffly, annoyed) What shall I wait 
for? 

Nancy. ('Eleanor starts to go to hint' — Nancy 
stops her) I'll send you word 

Howitt. (Starting to go, turning quickly to 
Eleanor,) Eleanor, you're coming away with me, 
aren't you? (Holds out his hands to her — fearing 
she may decide not to go.) 

Eleanor. (Determinedly, taking his hands) 
Yes, I am! 

Howitt. Then I'll wait (He kisses her 

quickly, nods gravely to Nancy and exits l.u .) 

(Nancy goes to back of chair L.c.) 

Eleanor. (Running to door after him. At 
door) Isn't he fascinating? (A few steps to upper 
end of couch lJ And he's my father! (Rushing 
to Nancy and embracing her. Kneels on chair l.c J 
Don't you love him ? 

(Mrs. Howitt, deeply troubled, enters r v over- 
hearing.) 



$6 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Nancy. (Sadly) He seems very nice. 

Mrs. H. (Unhappily) I knew what he came 
for! 

Eleanor. (Gets down from chair — faces front 
resolutely) Well, I'm going, Mamma! 

Mrs. H. (Going to her to c. Puts arms around 
her) I can't let you ! I can't ! 

Eleanor. (Firmly) I promised him. (Nancy 
moves away l. ) 

Mrs. H. (Weeping) No, no ! 

Eleanor. (Firmly) I made up my mind when 
I first I: card he was coming. 

Mrs. H. You want to leave me? 

Eleanor. No — but I can't be with you both 
at the same time — you settled that, Mamma, 

long- ago (Nancy goes to mantel l. 

Broken.) 

Mrs. H. (Stabbed, turns away — sits on couch r.) 
Oh! 

Eleanor. (Vehemently) I do want to get away 
from this miserable little dull old town and see a 
little of what Real Life is! 

Mrs. H. (Controlling herself) The real life is 
the spiritual life. 

Eleanor. (Sharply'— steps to her) Well. I want 
the other kind first. I want to meet a few people 
of some "real distinction" before I die. Cousin 
Nancy couldn't help being impressed herself with 
what papa said about that! (A little theatrically. 
Taking c.) Oh, I want to Hue! 

Nancy. (At mantel. Thoughtfully breaking 
her thoughtful silence) You got that out of a maga- 
zine, Eleanor. (Goes r. up stage.) 

Eleanor. (Defiantly) What if I did? ^ That's 
the only place I can get life in this provincial little 
hole, isn't it — magazines and movie shows ? (Turns 
away l.) 

Mrs. H. (Brokenly) I don't know what to do ! 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 37 

Nancy. (Goes to her — back of tabic R.C.J What 
can you do? (Meaning it's settled.) 

(Mrs. Ho witt cries out faintly in pain and Eleanor 
rushes to her — kneels at her feet — ar)ns around 
her.) 

Eleanor. Mamma! I can't hurt you so! If 
it's too hard for you I — I'll give up ! I'll stay — I'll 
stay even if the dullness of this dry old place docs 
kill me! If I've got to stand it, rather than trouble 
you, I — oh — couldn't you be a little braver and let 
me go? 

(Mrs. Howitt looks to Nancy for help.) 

Nancy. You see? 

Mrs. H. (Looking at her in fright) You mean 
I've got to (Broken.) 

Nancy. I never knew Eleanor to give anything 
up yet — once she'd set her mind on it — not till she'd 
tried it. 

Eleanor. (Hotly) That isn't fair! 

Nancy. (Patting Eleanor's shoulder. Busi- 
ness-like) It's an admirable quality. There's only 
one thing for you to do. Aunt Ellen, and that's to 
get some things packed for her. (Goes to couch L. — 1 
leans back on it.) 

Eleanor. (Happily) We've got all afternoon 
to 

Mrs. H. (Moaning) I can't bear it! 

Nancy. Yes, you can. 

^ Eleanor. Of course, I'll come back — but 

(Broken. ) 

Mrs. H. (Despairingly to Nancy J You hear 
her? 

Nancy. (Rapidly) Never mind what she says. 
(Change of tone. Spiritedly) At least she's right 



38 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

about one thing. It's time she did see something 
of life and other kinds of people. (Eleanor, en- 
couraged, straightens up) I know that because / 
never have! We don't want her settling down here 
to be an old maid — like me — because all the boys 
that amounted to anything, or were fit to marry — 
"went out to bigger towns where there was something 
worth doing — and left us behind them! (Goes to 
table R.c.J Let her go, Aunt Ellen; let her go and 
see what a larger life and a wider culture than ours 
is. If you don't — well, all I see for her is — Sammy 
[Wilson! (Goes l. to mantel — up l. around 
couch.) 

Eleanor. (Determinedly, springing up) I'm go- 
ing to pack ! (Rushes out r .) 

Mrs. H. (Tearfully) Why shouldn't she marry 
Sam Wilson — after a few years? 

Nancy. "After a few years!" (Crosses to c.) 
Why, Sam — means to marry her after a few 
months. He's "the raw material" for a United 
States Senator and thinks he almost is one. Upon 
my soul, if you don't get her away, I believe that 
darn boy would walk off with her! She wouldn't 
'see anything else to do. (Goes to l. of fable.) 

Mrs. H. (Rapidly) I'm helpless! I couldn't 
go to her when she's with her father ; Nancy (Rises 
' — goes to NancyJ, you're responsible for this — 
you're responsible for her (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Quickly) I accept the responsibility. 

Mrs. H. (Weeping softly) I knew it was — 
coming — but now it's come — and so suddenly 

Nancy. (Puts arm around her) We'll only 
think of what a grand trip she's getting ! It's all 
right, Aunt Ellen, we'll be gay over it. 

WARNING CURTAIN 

fSAM's voice is heard outside, calling.) 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 39 

Sam. (Off, plaintively) Oh, Eleanor! Ele'anor! 
Aren't you coming" out? 

Nancy. (Shakes her head, half -smilingly, half- 
ruefully) No, Sammy boy ! No more ! 

Mrs. H. (Brokenly) But think. Her father 
might get Eleanor to do such foolish things. If I 
ask you to, you've got to promise me you'll go to 
save her 

Nancy. (Shaking her head) I? There won't 
be any need, dear, and I couldn't leave my farm. 

Mrs. H. He might want her to marry one of his 
friends — like that foolish young man that's with 
him. 

Nancy. (Crying out in derision) Never! If 
she showed any signs of losing her mind so far as 
that 

(Broken by ring of door-bell. BELL. NancV 
strides rapidly and decisively to the door and 
opens it. , George in doorway.) 

George. ( Fast and loud and querulous) Do you 
mind? Howitt says he's expecting a word of some 
sort — we're sitting out there — and it's rather broil- 
ing, you know — and there's a little neighbor boy 
keeps yowling "El-ea-nor !" Couldn't something" be 
done? (^George does not come down. He remains 
in the doorway.) 

Nancy. (Crisply) Yes — you needn't wait any 
longer. 

George. (Protesting) Oh, I say! 

Nancy. (Continuing) Eleanor will be at the 
hotel by 5 o'clock. Run and tell Mr. Howitt. 

George. "Run?" 

Nancy. Yes. 

George. Oh, I do say ! (Spluttering with wrath 
and amazement) Oh — good Lord ! (Exits R.) 

Mrs. H. (Going toward her) Oh, Nancy, if 



40 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Eleanor ever did lose her mind enough to think of 
marrying a young man like that! 

Nancy. (Coining down c. Vehemently) Fd 
go!! If she got that bad I'd go and bring her back 
— ( Sam's voice heard calling Eleanor off) — even 
to Sammy Wilson! 

(She goes to Mrs. Howitt and puts her arm about 
Iter. Sam's voice is heard patJietieally calling 
"Eleanor" as the act drop falls.) 

(Playing time — 37 minutes.) 

MEDIUM CURTAIN 



ACT II 

Scene : August. The terrace, just outside a hand- 
some and summery-looking country house. Not 
a Westchester country house, but a seashore 
cottage, distinctly a house occupied only during 
the summer, meant for summer and expressing 
summer. This house is of smooth stucco, not 
cold white — a warm, creamy zvhite. It runs 
across at back, but not so far back as not to per- 
mit of its having considerable depth. It runs 
from extreme l. three-fourths of the way to 
extreme R. set square, being continued to ex- 
treme r. by a hedge; a wicket gate up r. 

Three wings. The warm, blue sky is seen 
over the house. There are shrubberies at back, 
and shrubberies running out somewhat from 
three wings, but up of them. A few feet down 
from house R. and l. low terrace walls, same 
- "material as house, panelled. Each is capped at 
its extremity by a very large, white bowl over- 
flowing with pink hydrangeas in blossom. In 
the aperture between the two ends of these 
walls is seen the large French window, with fan 
— light transom and scalloped curtains — the lat- 
ter of silk, and pulled up higher than a tall man's 
head. This is the center entrance and the only 
practicable entrance to the interior of the house. 
From the base of the zvindow the terrace, about 
twenty inches high, extends dozvn stage as far 
as the terrace wail, where it descends by two 
steps, with width of the gap between the ter- 

41 



42 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

race walls, to the level of the stage. Two other 
French windows, similar to c.e., are seen in the 
wall of the house, one upon each side of c.e. 
These, however, are not practicable. Across the 
full width of the house, above the tops of the 
three windows, is stretched a handsome awning 
of very broad green and white stripes, r. and l. 
of the terrace walls, curving obliquely to wings, 
green lawn is seen. The base of each terrace 
wall is masked by a narrow and regular strip of 
geranium bed. The whole effect is extremely 
cheerful, sunshiny, suggestive of the seashore, 
of summer and of gaiety and fashion. There 
is even a brilliant and light Frenchness about 
it. There is a glimpse of wicker furniture and 
chintz caught through c.e., is a- small, round 
wicker porch-table, enameled in the same tint. 
A simitar chair to l. of c.e. on terrace. Upon 
the steps are four or five large sofa-cushions, 
covered with chints to match that in the interior 
of the house, which have been brought out and 
abandoned. 

Inside the house a victrola is playing l. loudly, 
a very recent and lively dance-tune. Eleanor. 
charmingly and smartly dressed, is d g on 

the lawn with Cyril Kinney, a boy of twenty- 
two. He is good-looking, "zedl-brcd" in 
pearance; wears a rather gay tie, a Norfolk 
coat, white trousers and white-and-b!ack shoes; 
in everything very "smart." He is showing 
Eleanor a new step; and they laugh and talk as 
they dance. Stanley Howitt, wearing a sum- 
mer country suit, stands on terrace up l.. talk- 
ing to two ladies. One of these, Mrs. Kinney. 
sits upon the terrace railing, her hands clasped 
about her ankle. She is in riding clothes; black 
straw hat, coat, breeches an i boots. The other, 
Athalie YYainwright, stands besi. : ter- 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 43 

race railing, upon the ground, one arm upon the 
railing; she is languidly joining the conversa- 
tion of Mrs. Kinney and Howitt. She wears 
a white duck riding suit; breeches, etc., the coat 
cut as short as extreme mode allows; brozun 
boots; brozvn hat. Mrs. Kinney is handsome , 
youthful-looking ; she might be thirty, but is 
older. Athalie is a very pretty blonde, of con- 
siderable distinction; her manner and voice sug- 
gest Ethel Barrymore's — as if she affected it. 
Howitt and Athalie are drinking through 
straws out of long glasses. 

VICTROLA— ONE-STEP 

Mrs. Kinney seated on pier l. of steps, smok- 
ing. Cyril and Eleanor dancing from up l.c. 
to doivn r. Back to up l.c. — and finish down 
r. — as victrola stops. Athalie drops down L. 
to table during dance. Howitt goes r. back of 
settee — around it and up c. Counting 1-2-3-4 — 
as they dance. Then talks to Mrs. Kinney. 
As victrola stops — Maud and Gore enter c.e. — 
Maud comes down steps to c. — Gore to l. of 
. steps — talks to Mrs. Kinney. 

The victrola stops — the dancers pause — Maud 
Howitt appears in doorzvay, laughing teasingly 
at Eleanor. Maud is thirty; very pretty; very 
"smart" in an afternoon gown. Archie Gore 
comes out with Maud ; he is muscular, athletic- 
looking man of fifty; wealthy-looking. Summer 
outdoor clothes and white shoes. 

STOP VICTROLA 

Eleanor. (Runs to Maud. Pleading) Oh, 

Maud ! Cyril was just teaching me that step 

Maud. (Coming out, laughing) The victrola's 



44 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

run down! Go in and wind it up. (Puts an arm 
around Eleanor. J 

('Eleanor runs into house.) 

Cyril. (Quickly) Not for me! I need a little 
lubrication ! (Runs up to table on the terrace, and 
seises a long drink on the tray that is there. Maud 
drops down r. to settee.) 

Mrs. Kinney. (Rather carelessly) You've had 
several since lunch, old son. Remember what hap- 
pened to your poor papa! 

Cyril. Now, Mamma Why, what do we come 
visiting to the country for? 

Athalie. (At l. of table L.J Cards. Horses. 
Flirt. 

Cyril. (Lifting glass) No. Buttermilk ! (Sips 
ostentatiously.) 

(Others amused. Howitt below rail l., talking to 
Mrs. Kinney. J 

Gore. (Going up steps to top c.) I'll go you, 
Cyril. I have to, now and then (^Eleanor enters 
c.e .), when I see the way that partner of mine loafs 
on his job — since his daughter's joined him. (Half- 
jocular, half -in- earnest. He takes a glass from 
Cyril.) 

Maud. (Sits l. end of settee r.c .) I won't have 
my husband blamed, if he is your poor little slave 
of a partner! 

fHowiTT, seeing Eleanor, reaches out his hand over 
terrace wall and helps her down steps to R. of 
them — puts arm around her — and both stand 
taking in scene.) 

Gore. (Coming down to Maud J "Slave!'* 
(Grunts out a laugh.) 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 45 

Maud. (Continuing quickly) Look how you're 
loafing yourself ! 

Gore. Got a right to. I'm one of your daugh- 
ter's week-enders. More reason Howitt ought to 
be at the office. (Offers her drink he has in his 
hand. She refuses it.) 

Eleanor. He won't 'be at anybody's office much 
longer. Now he's got me, he's going to retire before 
long. 

Gore. (Laughingly) Oh, is he ! (Goes up to 
rail r. and drinks with Cyril, zvho is sitting on rail.) 

Howitt. We'll see. Are you happy? 

Eleanor. "Happy !" It's just like a beautiful 
dream ! 

Howitt. And you like your "villa" and your 
guests 

( Gore goes down r. to settee — sits r. end.) 

Howitt. (Continuing) And your new mamma 
— you love her, too, don't you? 

Eleanor. (Quickly, turns — looks at Maud) 
Papa, let's just call Maud, — Maud. (Changing to 
enthusiasm) Of course I love her! (Turns back 
to him) She's so crazy to give me a good time. 

Howitt. (Lighting a cigarette) That's what 
everything's for, dear. (Puts his arm around her.) 

Mrs. Kinney. (On pier l. of steps. Carelessly) 
What a pair of softies — like some kind old man — 
and his dear little stenographer ! (^Eleanor doesn't 
understand; looks puzzled. No pause. Howitt 
steps tozvard Mrs. Kinney. Mrs. Kinney, at con- 
elusion of her speech, casually takes Howitt's ciga- 
rette from his mouth and places it in her own, turn- 
ing to Maud, then immediately glancing back at 
Eleanor, she says carelessly) Don't be shocked, 
young Eleanor; Maud isn't. 

Eleanor. (Smiling) I — I'm not shocked^ 
Papa's told me : The Right Sort can do anything. 



46 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Howitt. (Laughing. Going back to Eleanor 
on steps — puts arm around her) Come on. Let's 
go count the roses again! (He takes her up steps 
to c. — she stops.) 

Eleanor. ^Athalie l. of table l.c. — with knee 
on chair — watching them) And Papa, isn't it the 
grandest thing, cousin Nancy Price knowing such 
people ? 

Howitt. (Grimly) I hope it's going to do Miss 
Price good ! (Going l. with her on terrace) That's 
what I want to talk to you about, sweetheart. 
(Exeunt lJ 

( Maud rises — goes up c. Gore finishes drink — puts 
glass on table back of settee r.c.J 

Mrs. K. (Catching Eleanor's speech, carelessly) 
"Price!" Is that the name of the genteel person 
from somewhere that arrived this morning? Who 
or what? 

Maud. (Casually, going to Mrs. KinneyJ 
Country cousin of Eleanor's. I wouldn't be too 
cordial. 

Mrs. K. Not precisely ! 

Athalie. (Catching this as she kneels on chair 
L. of table l.c. With a languidly satirical laugh) I 
do loathe the honest bourgeoisie ! "Price !" Quel 
nom ! (Going r. — Gore sees her coming toward him 
— gets up in haste — goes to chair extreme R. and sits. 
She goes up r.c. to terrace rail R. — and drinks 
through a straw Cyril's drink while he drinks from 
same glass.) 

Mrs. K. What'd you let Eleanor ask her for? 

Maud. (With a short laugh of protest) "Let" 
her? Stan and I didn't know anything about it till 
this morning when Eleanor casually informed us 
that her "Cousin Nancy" was here! (Crosses down 
L.c. and sits in chair front of table) Eleanor's 
ghastly youthful. 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 47 

Mrs. K. What's Stan think of it ? 

Maud. (Confidentially) Furious. Of course 
he can't show it. Naturally, it's plain as day; the 
mother couldn't keep her hands off — hence our new 
visitor. 

Mrs. K. (Sagely. Rises and goes down l.c. to 
back of chair R. of table) I shouldn't think you 
need worry much, old party ! 

Maud. (Smiling wisely) No. I doubt if she 
finds herself so awfully in with everybody ! 

Mrs. K. (Looking up to AthalieJ Do you get 
it, Athalie, old kitten? 

Athalie. (Drops down to table back of settee 
r.c. Languidly glancing down, having apparently 
paid no attention since her last speech) Nom de 
Dieu! Ta queule, bebe ! (Maud laughs wisely ) I'm 
on! (Turns her head again to Gore, who turns 
away in disgust.) 

Mrs. K. (Change of tone to Maud. Goes down 
c. a few steps) I thought you said George was to 
be with us by to-day ? 

Athalie. (Turning again, with a sudden lan- 
guid intensity before Maud can reply) She did 
promise George would be here ! Where is that gor- 
geous he? (She calls it "Gawge" drawlingly, and 
with emphasis.) 

(Gore again shows his dislike for her. Cyril gets 
up from rail — wheels around with hands in air 
and drops limp in chair r. of c.e.J 

Mrs. K. (Crossing to her) You'll have to keep 
your hands off, Athalie, old party ! They want 
George for young Eleanor. (Not an aside.) 

Athalie. They'll never get him for young Elea- 
nor! • (Maud laughs wisely) I've been trying for 
years. He thinks I'm a rug. He walks on me. I 
adore for George to walk on me ! 



48 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

( Cyril again gets up — same bus. — drops in chair 
l. of c.e. Gore registers disgust. Mrs. Kin- 
ney goes up to pier l. of steps and sits.) 

Maud. (Smiling) You let our Georgie alone ! 

Gore. (To Maud. Rises, crosses to c.) Which 
of your Georgies is this, Maud ? 

Maud. Best little George I've got, Mr. Gore. 
George Tewksberry Reynolds, Third. 

Gore. Oh, him! 

Maud. Just the same. Fashion papers could do 
'better without patterns than without photographs tit 
George Tewksberry Reynolds, Third. Car's at the 
station for him. 

Athalie. That cuts our riding down to about 
ten minutes, Widow Kinney. Come on. (Going up 
to steps. Mrs. Kinney rises. Cyril dashes over 
to table — gets drink — as he sees her coming toward 
him up steps. Mrs. Kinney starts to follow her — 
goes up steps — stops — seeing Cyril with another 
drink in his hand) I want to get back by the time 
Monsieur le Prince George gets here, don't I? Ven- 
tre Saint Guis ! (Exits l. along terrace.) 

Mrs. K. Cyril Kinney ? 

CGore goes l. back of table to extreme l. Maud 
rises — goes slowly to c.) 

Cyril. (At table) Dear old mumsey? 

Mrs. K. Put down that drink (Broken.) 

Cyril. (Obediently) Yes, mumsey. (Lifts full 
glass and starts to swallow rapidly.) 

Mrs. K. (Sharply) I mean put down the 

glass ( Cyril says "Oh!" and does so) Go 

hold my stirrup! 

Cyril. (Briskly, as he does so) Yes, mumsey. 
(He shows no effects of drink except in a rather 
staring smile.) 






THE COUNTRY COUSIN 49 

Mrs. K. (On terrace c. Smilingly, but in ear- 
nest to Maud, as Cyril crosses) There, old party ! 
I think the way I maneuver so that you and Archie 
Gore can get a little time together, now and then 

( Cyril exits l.) 

Maud. (Going up to steps. Speaking lightly to 
Mrs. Kinney, as the latter follows Cyril off L.J 
Good old Janie! 

Gore. (Comes toward her — after a glance to- 
'd l.) Maud ! (He speaks her name with a 
hushed eagerness.) 

Maud. (In a low tone, crisply) Don't be im- 
petuous, Archie. My husband and EVranor are j 
over there. They could see us if they happened to 
turn this way. (Drops down r.c; 

Gore. (With a short, light laugh. Going to her j 

m don't suppose Stan would mind, do you? 

Maud. (Thought fully. Going to settee) I let 
Stan go his way and he lets me go it 
for'/et. he and I are very good friends, Archie. 
(Sits.) 

- .re. (At r.c. Lightly. Amused) Well, your 
• daughter seems pretty well fascinated with 

Maud. (Cheerfully) "It's the life !*' 
Gore. (Smiling ) Think she's crazy about her 
stepmother, too, Maud? 

Maud, f , ywing a pretty wrist-watch) Doesn't 
that look like it? 

Gore. (Taking her hand, in both vf ' ' — looks 
at watch j That doesn't prove much! — I gave one 
that to my wife ! You're a great little present- 
ter, Maudie ! 
aud. (Gaily) Aren't I? Perhaps you remem- 
ber tain pretty brooch — ood ruby and 
i little rubies and white ' - .^troin- 



5 o THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

berg's — that I put up some pretty strong hints about 
to a certain old party (Drops her hand — turns away), 
a great friend of mine who happens to be head of 
my husband's firm in business ? 

Gore. (Turning back to her) Oh, but Maud! 
I couldn't! What would people have thought? 
That wouldn't have looked well. 

Maud. (Triumphantly) It would have looked 
well on me — and it's going to! 

Gore. (Incredulous. Pause) You mean the lit- 
tle girl's going to buy it for you? 

Maud. She has, 1 

Gore. You're a marvel ! 

Maud. You ought to know! 

Gore. (Grinning ruefully) I certainly ought to 
know what you and Star can spend — but you're go- 
ing a new gait this summer! She may not have 
much left by the time you marry her ofr to George 
Reynolds ! 

Maud. But in the meantime what a time we're 
having! (Claps her hands like a child. This is the 
essence of her character: should be starred. ) 

Gore. (Laughing) And, of course, George Rey- 
nolds has plenty! (Offers her cigarette from his 
case. She refuses. More drily) Is he going to 
marry her? 

Maud. Oh, he's very much crown-prince, and 
run after — but we're sure he likes Eleanor. She's 
so peachy fresh. 

Gore. How about her? 

Maud. She hangs on Stan's eyelids. When Stan 
talks George, she thinks George. 

Gore. Yes, — I suppose so. 

Maud* (Frowning. Rises — crosses to l.c.J 
That's what has started something rather like a 
nuisance for us. 

Gore. How? (Follows her to c.) 

Maud. Eleanor, the little goose, wrote home to 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 51 

her mother that her father "thought so highly of 
one of the young men" and also mentioned taking 
this place and buying a couple of cars. Result : the 
Price girl arrived this morning — invited, of course, 
at the mother's suggestion," by simple Eleanor. 
Never told us! Pleasant for Me! (Goes l. — front 
of table) Since lunch, Miss Price has changed her 
frock and gone poking all over the place like an in- 
surance adjuster! 

Gore. What's she going to think of Crown- 
Prince George? 

Maud. (Sits on table l.c. Quickly, spiritedly) 
What's he going to think of her? He saw her \vhen 
he went out there with Stan — and you ought to hear 
him describe her! (Laughs mirthfully) Noho&y 
knows how to make people so uncomfortable as the 
great George when he doesn't like their type — 
and he doesn't like hers ! He's one reason I don't 
think she'll stay long! 

(Gore crosses to r.c.J 

Servant. (Comes in c.e. — stands on top step r.) 
Mr. Reynolds has arrived, Madam. He is coming 
downstairs. 

Maud. (Jumping up.) Good. (Gore goes r., 
sits in chair extreme r. Calling off L.j Eleanor! 
Oh, Stan ! George is here ! (She goes r, of steps.) 

Servant. I told Mr. Reynolds you were out 
here, madam. 

(Howitt and Eleanor come on l. They stand l. 

of steps.) 

, Maud. (Looking off through c.e.J Hooray for 
Georgie ! 

(George enters c.e. He goes quickly to Eleanor, 
taking her hand.) 



52 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

George. My dear young lady ! (Turns swiftly 
to Maud; kisses her hand. She goes r. and sits on 
arm of settee) My dear Mrs. Howitt! H'lo, Stan. 
Do, Gore. (To Eleanor again) I brought you a 
beautiful box of candy. It's in my room. Do you 
mind leaving it there? They say if you eat a great 
deal of candy when you go to the country, you don't 
tipple so much. 

^Maud sits; he gives her a cigarette.) 

Maud. (Cheerily) We're glad you're here, 
George, aren't we, Eleanor ? 

Eleanor. Yes. (^Eleanor looks shy; Howitt 
speaks quickly for her.) 

Howitt. Yes, of course she is ! (Gaily. Puts 
his arm around her — takes her down l.c. He sits in 
chair r. of table — she stands r. of him — holding his 
hand.) 

George. (Warmly to Eleanor ) I hope so ! 
(Changing his tone. Going to Maud J I say, you 
have a vicious neighborhood, though. Awful peo- 
ple getting off at your station. ■ • 

Maud. What made you think so ? . 

George. People carrying wicker suitcases ! (As 
if that settled them.) 

Eleanor. (Anxiously) Is that wrong? 
Shouldn't one carry a wicker (Broken.) 

George. (Protesting) The dernier cri of the 
pure plebeian ! Straw bags and wicker bags ! 

Gore. (Testily) Often carried one myself. 

George. (Impudently) Yes, you would. 

Maud. (Laughing, to Gore,) Never mind; our 
Georgie has a right to his pet dislikes. 

Howitt. (Amused) Why, what's the matter 
with wicker suitcases, George? 

George. (Taking c.) My dear man, there are 
just two kinds of people in this world. People like 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 53 

me— us, that is to say — and people who carry wicker 
suitcases. People who carry wicker suitcases tend 
to their own furnaces and varnish their own boots. 
Thev drive in things called surreys — with fringe 
round the top — and they have engravings of Wash- 
ington crossing the Delaware in what they call the 
"sitting-room." I fancy I'm as democratic as any- 
body, but it strikes me there really ought to be a So- 
ciety for the Prevention of wicker suitcases ! 
(Crosses r. to Maud. J 

Servant. (Appearing in c.e. with a wicker suit- 
case. Stands l. end of top step) I beg your par- 
don, madam, but (Broken.) 

Maud. (Quickly, amused and pleased) Look 
what he's got in his hand! Right on top of your 
oration ! 

George. Is it his own? 

Maud. I fancy it belongs to our guest, Miss 
Price. 

George. Your guest? 

Maud. It is Miss Price's, isn't it, Pruitt? 

Pruitt. (The servant) Yes, madam ; the bag 
is Miss Price's. Miss Price asked me to have some 

things pressed for her. I merely happened to 

(Broken.) 

George. (With great distaste) Who is "Miss 
Price" ? (Remembering) Oh ! Not the Miss Price 
who runs a farm out in 

(Eleanor looks at HowittJ 

Maud. Sh ! 

(Eleanor is profoundly mortified.) 

George. (Incredulous) Miss — ah — Price is the 
wicker suitcase person ? 

Eleanor. (Gasping) Oh! (Runs to c.e.J 



54 TPE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Ho witt. (Following, comforting) Don't mind, 
dear, 

("Eleanor exits c.e. Ho witt stops at door.) 

Maud. (Rises, crosses to l.c. Amused) Take 
it away, Pruitt. 

("Cyril enters L.) 

Pruitt. Yes, madam. I merely stopped on my 
way, madam, to let you know that Mr. Gore's yacht 
has been sighted quite some time ago, coming into 
the harbor. 

Gore. (Rises, crosses to c.) By Jove ; on time ! 

Maud. (Speaking at the same time) Hooray! 
Archie, you are a dear! 

Cyril. Hooray ! (He shows no increased in- 
toxication except by fixed smile. Goes up to table 
and drinks another quietly. Talks to Howitt dur^ 
ing scene. No pause for his speech. No one no^ 
tices him.) 

Gore. (Explaining to Howitt and. GeorgeJ I 
thought it might please young Eleanor and give us 
all a lark! I had my boat sent round so we could 
have dinner and dance aboard. 

Howitt. (On terrace — leans over rail) Very 
good of you, Archie. 

Pruitt. She's just off the pier, sir; come to an- 
chor. 

(Exit l. along terrace.) 

Gore. (Going up steps) I'll run aboard and see 
there's something proper on ice. 

Cyril. (Quietly) I'll go, with you. 

Gore. What ho, for a little old-fashioned romp 
to-night, eh, Maudie? 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 55 

Maud. (Merrily, as he exits with Cyril and 
Howitt, c.e .) We're game ! (Laughing. Going r. 
to settee) Oh, but that wicker suitcase was pat ! 

George. (Coldly, coming down R.cJ Wicker 
suitcases aren't ever a joke, dear lady! 

Maud. (Looking in c.e.) Well, here's one, any- 
how. (Crossing l. to table.) 

George. W^here ? 

Maud. (Sits on table) There ! 

^Nancy appears c.e. She wears a pretty afternoon 
gown, rather simple, and carries a sewing bag.) 

Nancy. (Friendly, but a little shy) I beg your 
pardon. I 

Maud. (With secret, mischievous amusement, 
rising. George goes down r. of settee) Oh, come 
out, Miss Price. ( Nancy drops sewing bag in chair 
L. of c.e. on terrace. Pauses, then introduces, look- 
ing at GeorgeJ Here's somebody you've met be- 
fore. ^Nancy comes down steps. George bows 

stiffly.) ,■'■■■■:. . . 

Nancy. (Simply and in a friendly voice, going 
r.c. toward him) How d'y' do? (Bows.) 

Maud. (Crossing to steps c.) I don't think I 
could do better than leave you two to get better 
acquainted ! (Unable to control her mirth, she gives 
them a brimming glance; presses her handkerchief 
over her mouth and runs off ; they do not look at her. 
George stands frozenly for a moment and then starts 
slightly as Nancy speaks.) 

Nancy. (Pleasantly) When you came out to 
Centerville with Mr. Howitt — it was a very agitated 
time, you see (Broken. This speech is the be- 
ginning of an explanation that she doesn't know his 
name; but he interrupts.) 

George. I really didn't notice. All I remember 
is a neighbor boy making such a lot of noise. (Makes 
a small bow — crosses l. to l.c.J 



56 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Nancy. (Goes R. a step) I think I told you then 
that I am Miss Price. 

George. Ah? (As though not comprehending) 
Price. Yes. Price. I quite understand. (Bozvs 
again. Goes up, intending to exit c.e.) 

Nancy. (Going on pleasantly) But as it hap- 
pens I never have heard your name. 

George. (Unwittingly detained) No. I see. 
Yes. (Bows. Going out again — one foot on step.) 

Nancy. (Sits on settee R.c. Smiling faintly) I 
suppose, as we've really "met," we're at liberty to 
discuss it. 

George. (Cheeked again — comes down a fern 
steps) "Discuss it?" Discuss what? 

Nancy. Who you are. 

George. (Incredulous) Who I am? Who /am? 
(Whispering) Oh, my God! (Goes dozrn L.c.j 

Nancy. Of course, even if I hadn't taken you 
for Mr. Howitt when I first saw you, I'd have been 
pretty sure you weren't from our part of the coun- 
try. 

George. (Turns) Iowa, you mean? 

Nancy. No. Ohio ! 

George. (Going to c.) Was it? Ah — we were 
motoring, you see — I never was quite straight on 
whether it was Iowa or Ohio we were in. (Stepping 
to her) Which is which? 

Nancy. Why, Ohio is ! 

George. Of course it is rather a task to distin- 
guish between all those mixed-up places out there — - 
so far away from things ! 

Nancy. We have a lot of old people in our 
neighborhood used to be like that ! They'd never 
traveled any: just stayed where their grandfathers 
settled, and got so used to Ohio running the whole 
United States most of the time, all they knew about 
New York was, that it was where the Brooklyn 
Bridge is ! — You needn't be mortified because you 




THE COUNTRY COUSIN 53 

don't know history ; we have people just as back- 
ward, right out there where we make it! And as 

for geography 

George. Do you give lectures on geography, 
too? 

Nancy. (Wistfully) I'm afraid I only know it 
from books : I think if I lectured the title would 
have to be "Travels in a Surrey." 

George. (To her with grim triumph) I knew 
it ! (Facing front) I knew it ! 

Nancy. (In a tone of gentle inquiry. Leans 
forward) Something you — know? 

George. (Facing her) I think I saw it. It's 
got fringe around the top, hasn't it? 
Nancy. What ? 
George. Your — ah — surrey ! 
Nancy. (Quietly) No. No fringe on mine. I 
live so unostentatiously, you see. 

George. (Not sure whether or not she is satiri- 
cal) Do you? One thing I'm almost positive of, 
though : Don't you own an engraving of Washington 
crossing the Delaware? 

Nancy. (Looking at him steadily and quietly) 
Grandfather did, but it passed to the other side of 
the family. 

George. Indeed? And you really have grand- 
fathers out there ! I must say it didn't look it. All 
sorts of civilization. (Steps away L.j Surreys, 
grandfathers, sewing machines, telephones — (Turns 
back) — or do you have telephones? — I didn't no- 
tice. 

Nancy. Why, haven't you ever telephoned out 
to Ohio — not even on business ? 

George. (Slightly stung) Really, I haven't mucli 
to do with things like business. (Starts to 

Nancy. (Exclaiming) I think I've got it! 
George. (Bored) Is it anything of much impor- 



58 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

tance that one should inquire what you think you've 
got? 

Nancy. Your name — or one just like it. (He 
becomes visibly more haughty instantly; she hastens 
$o explain) It's a habit I have — it passes the time 
Son trains, for instance — looking at strangers and try- 
ing to think of names to suit them. 

George. Indeed? I'm to understand that dur- 
ing my unimportant remarks, you've been — ah — 
looking at me (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Quickly, seriously) Not staring, I 
[hope! 

George. (Annoyed, sharply) Looking at me, I 
'said, and thinking of a name to suit me? 

Nancy. (In quick protest) Oh, I mean a real 
frame — a proper name — not like calling people 
names ! I'm sure I wouldn't have (Broken.) 

George. Thank you so much! 

Nancy. It's curious how people's names suit 
them, and it's still more curious to see how close 
you can come to a stranger's name with a little ob- 
•servation of him. (Thoughtfully) Yes, I've been 
looking at you — (He faces front — resentful) — and 
{thinking about you (Broken.) 

George. Of course I'm enormously flattered and 
iso forth! I suppose one must dutifully enquire: 
(Steps toward her) What is your name for 
me? 

Nancy. Well, your first name might be — Wil- 
bur. (He gives her a look — then faces front. 
George's lips move, repeating the name incredu- 
lously) And I was sure that your last name was a 
color, like White or Black or Green or Brown. 
Brown, I think. And then I was sure you had a 
middle name — something terribly unlikely — like 

Dorincourt or Marmaduke or Fitzherbert 

(Broken.) 

George. (Very quickly, and with temper, hand- 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 59 

ing her a card from his cardcase) Permit me to en- 
lighten you ! 

Nancy. (Quickly and triumphantly, as she reads 
his card) Tewksberry ! I was almost right ! Read- 
ing the card more attentively. George makes sharp 
turn) George Tewksberry Reynolds. (Then more 
slowly) Eye, eye, eye ? ( The card is printed George 
Tewksberry Reynolds, Third, the "Third" being 
in Roman numerals III. She looks at him atten-* 
tively, and then reads the card again, as if more 
puzzled) "George Tewksberry Reynolds." Eye, eye, 
eye? (Reading the "eyes" with the increased em- 
phasis of her increased puzzlement.) 

George. (Indignantly) No! It's not "eye, eye, 
eye !" It's George Tewksberry Reynolds Third! 

Nancy. (Completely puzzled) Third? Third 
what? 

George. My soul! (Walks away lJ 

Nancy. (Timidly inquiring) Does it mean 
something you do about baseball ? 

George. (Controlling himself with difficulty. 
Goes back to her) No ! It means that my grand- 
father's name was George Tewksberry Reynolds, 
that my father's name was George Tewksberry Rey- 
nolds, and that my name is George Tewksberry 
Reynolds. (On his fingers) One, two, three! 
George Tewksberry Reynolds, third ! I'm the third. 
(Almost furiously) Does that help you at all? 

Nancy. And are your grandfather and father 
still alive? George the First, George the Second, 
and George the Third — so people can tell you 
apart ? 

George. (Violently) They're dead, thank you! 
(Facing front.) 

Nancy. (Trying to maintain her composure) 

Oh, no ; thank you ! You ■ (Is unable to finish 

the word "you," but bursts into laughter, which she 
is unable to control.) 



60 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

George. (In fury) This is merely outrageous ! 
(Starts for the house.) 

Nancy. (But partially controlling herself. Rises 
i — goes a step r.) I know it ! I know it ! 

George. (Goes up steps — halting and turning 
toward her) It strikes you as absurd ? 

Nancy. (Still laughing, but apologetically) No, 
iio ! I'm not laughing (Appealingly.) 

George. (Furious) I see you're not! (Down 
'steps and to c.) If you think it's good taste to ! 

Nancy. (Crossing to him at c. Seriously and 
quickly) I'm really not so inconsiderate. It just 

reminded me (Suddenly gives way to laughter 

again. George starts to leave, but turns back as she 
speaks again) When you said it that way, I couldn't 
help remembering Jud Cooley that used to work at 
Uncle Ben's place! When they had to take the 
poor old thing off to the County Infirmary he kept 
shouting "My goodness, don't you know who I am? 
I'm the worst old man that ever lived! I'm old 
Henry the Eighth !" 

George. (With profound bitterness) Oh, thank 
you! Thank you very much! (Goes straight off 
L. front of table.) 

Nancy. (Follows him to table l. Controlling 
herself and protesting) Oh, you mustn't mind! I 

wouldn't distress you for (Stops. She stands 

alone upon the stage looking off after him. Then 
she turns, very thoughtfully picks up his card, looks 
at it for a moment, and then still thoughtfully cocks 
her head to one side, continuing to look at the card, 
in that attitude rather whimsically. Laughing) 

George Tewksberry Reynolds — eye-eye-eye 

(Drops into chair r. of table.) 

'^Eleanor appears with Howitt in interior, up of 
c.E. They seem to be concluding a conversa- 
tion. She is perturbed. He looks grave, with 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 61 

a gesture he indicates that it would be better 
for her to go out to Nancy. His gesture means 
"Get it over with." Eleanor, very serious, 
steps out c.e. upon terrace.) 

Eleanor. (Seething underneath) Nancy! 
Nancy! (Comes doivn to meet Nancy.,) 

Nancy. (Rises — quickly going up and putting 
an arm round her) Darling! They haven't given 
us a chance to talk at all. (She looks at Howitt as 
if to dismiss him. He takes the hint and goes.) 

Eleanor. (With excited severity) Nancy, I 
was coming- out here, but I heard you talking to 
Mr. Reynolds and I couldn't! Nancy, papa and I 
were standing just inside that window there, and 
we heard everything you said ! It was awful ! 

Nancy. (Gravely amused) You thought so? 

Eleanor. (Aghast, all in a breath) Comparing 
him with lunatics and — and people like Henry the 
Eighth ! Don't you know who he is? Don't you 
ever read anything? He goes everywhere. Can't 
you see what he is? 

Nancy. (Lightly) Yes, I think I can. (Crosses 
r. front of Eleanor. J 

Eleanor. (Following her) Why on earth did 
you go and make such awful jay breaks before him? 
Why, he's the most distinguished one that's here ! 

Nancy. Oh! Why didn't you tell me? (Sits 
on settee r.cJ What does he do? 

Eleanor. Nothing! 

Nancy. Well, that seems to suit his talents per- 
fectly. (^Eleanor goes to l.c. Then briskly) Elea- 
nor, how much did this "villa" cost you, dear? 

Eleanor. (Crossly) Seven thousand dollars. 

Nancy. (Astounded) Seven thousand! 

Eleanor. (Crossing back to Nancy J You're 
not used to these things. Seven thousand isn't ex- 
pensive for a place like this. 



62 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Nancy. I should say not! Why, I paid 

(Broken.) 

Eleanor. (Sharply) I've only rented the place, 
Nancy ! 

Nancy. Rented ? 

Eleanor. Yes, papa's a business man, and he 
advised it. 

Nancy. He did? 

Eleanor. Yes ! He takes care of all my busi- 
ness affairs now. 

Nancy. (Quietly) He took care of your moth- 
er's once ! (Rises.) 

Eleanor. (SJiarply) Nancy! (Goes up to 
steps.) 

Nancy. Eleanor! I'm sorry I said it — here. 
(Holds out her hand — Eleanor comes down and 
takes it. Nancy sits on l. arm of settee.) 

Eleanor. Nancy, I think a great deal more for 
myself lately than I used to when you knew me. 
(Lets go of Nancy's hand) Papa and I were talk- 
ing (a while ago), and all of a sudden I began to 
wonder: Did mamma think you ought to come on 
here to sort of be against papa — and the rest ? 

Nancy. (Quickly — taking her hands again) No. 
Only for — you. 

Eleanor. (Steps l. a bit — faces front. Quietly) 
Well — you mustn't make things uncomfortable! 
These people are easy-going, but you don't dream 
how fastidious they are, especially Mr. Reynolds! 
(Crying out with the recollection of horror) Oh! 
That wicker suitcase! (Crossing l. to table.) 

Nancy. Your mother lent it to me, Eleanor. 
What's the matter with it? 

Eleanor. (Going toward her to c. Declaiming 
wnth horror) People that carry wicker suitcases 
have pictures of Washington crossing the Delaware 
hanging in sitting-rooms. Mr. Reynolds said so! 

Nancy. (Bridling) Mr. Reynolds said so ? Mr. 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 63 

Reynolds objects to wicker suitcases and Washing- 
ton crossing the Delaware? I thought that was set- 
tled. 

Eleanor. (Snapping) What was? 

Nancy. George the Third's troubles with George 
Washington. 

Eleanor. (Excited and hostile) Nancy, Mr. 

Reynolds is the man papa and Maud think 

(Broken.) 

Nancy. (Rises — goes to her at c. Sharply) 
Eleanor, you wrote your mother about "Somebody" 
your father liked and you'd "never seen anybody 
nicer," but you didn't mention his name. That's 
part of what frightened her. She was afraid it 
might be, but I couldn't believe it without hearing 
it from you! Don't tell me — don't tell me it's 
George the Third ! 

Eleanor. (Defiantly) It «7 

Nancy. (Incredulous) What ! 

Eleanor. (Defiant) And Maud says he's the 
greatest catch in— — * (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Seising her hands) Eleanor! You 
can't care for him ! 

Eleanor. (Superior and hostile) It doesn't 
matter whether I do or not ! Don't be provincial ! 
Among people of the world marriages are arranged. 

Nancy. (Determinedly) This one won't be ! 
(Walks away R.) 

Eleanor. (Hostile. A step r. — then stops) I 
suppose you think he's egotistical. Nothing of the 
kind (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Grimly) I did wonder what it was! 
Tell me ! 

Eleanor. He's superior! 

Nancy. (Laughs) He certainly is ! And, oh ! 
What a mistake I made! (Turning r.) 

Eleanor. (Sharply) What about? 

Nancy. (Turns to her) About Sammy Wilson ! 



64 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

(Eleanor turns away with disgust— goes l. to table 
l.c. — Nancy follows to c.) One of the reasons I 
advised your mother to let you come was to save 
you from marrying such a little bundle of conceit! 
(Marveling and remorseful) Why, Sam's an ama- 
teur; he doesn't know what it means! (Turns R. a 
bit.) 

Eleanor. What what means ? 

Nancy. Conceit! Sam's conceit is all about 
what he means to make himself ; George the Third's 
conceit is about what he thinks others have made 
him. Sam means to be an ancestor; George the 
Third's content to be a descendant. Between the 
two I'll take the ancestor! (Turns — goes r.) 

("Mrs. Kinney and Athalie heard off l v approach* 
ing, talking. No pause.) 

Eleanor. (Following her. Very sharply) 

Nancy, if you write to mamma (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Gesturing to off l.) Wait, Eleanor. 

(As Mrs. Kinney and Athalie enter, talking lJ 

Mrs. K. (Goes to l.c. Cue "to mamma." 
Speaks same time as Nancy) Where's your mamma, 
young Eleanor? 

Eleanor. (Turns — getting a quick glance from 
Nancy, speaks quickly) Maud? I'll find her. 
(Exit cm.) 

Athalie. (Comes back of table l.c, puts one 
knee upon it. Turning to Mrs. Kinney J Wonder 
where's George? 

(Mrs. Kinney sits on pier l. of steps.) 

Nancy. (Seeing Athalie's position) Good 
afternoon. 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 6j 

Mrs. K, (Turning and staring) What? 

Nancy, (Mildly) 1 hadn't soon you since lunch 
time, l said good afternoon. 

M rs, K. ( )h, good afternoon. 

Athalie, (La v staring at Jier) Have 

you seen the view from (he other end of the ter- 
race? ( C est are to Up 1 .) 

Nancy. Win, no. [didn'tknow (Broken*) 

Athalie. (Still storing, still languid) Don't 
miss it any longer. I'm sure you'll enjoy it. (Takes 
knee off table!) 

Nancy, (Going) Thank you For telling me. 
(Exit u along terrace. Neither Athalie of Mrs. 
Kinney .\7/<>w any expression, ) 

Mrs, K. (Ottirtlv) Not bad, old party! 

( MAUD e>:ters C.E.J 

Athalte. (Same tone) 1 fear I wasn*t too «*&- 

//<?/ (Crossi)nj up to c.) 

fMAUD enters C.E. ditr'nm this.) 

Maud. (V/y .v7v enters) It's almost time you 
dressed, you know. (Remains on terrace.) 

Athauk. (does to Maud, //'//// languid ani- 
mation ) 1 [as George come? 

MAUD. ( Lauijliing ) Look. 

^George enters l., stands t„. glances toward off 

up Lj 

George, Really. Really. I can't see it! 
Athalie. George, 

GEORGE, (Indifferently) Oh, howdy' do. £7V> 

Mrs, KinneyJ Howdy 1 do. (dancing up off l. 

a(]ain) Really, 1 can;/.'/ see it. 
' Maud. What's the matter? 



66 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

George, (Coming to c, of str } -s ] It's that 'Miss 
What's-her-name from Iowa — Ohio, 
Maud, (Quickly) What did she do? 

George. (As if relating an astonishing offence) 

She waved her hand at me ! 

(Athai.ie </i'uC i/o,v;.' R.e. — jr:/.\" on settee. ) 

Mrs, K. Aihalio just scut her to look at a view 
where there isn't any view whatever. Now shell 

think Athalie meant yen wore the view. 

George. (Going down lx, — rffcs r, 1 

shouldn't put it beyond her! She certainly seems 
to think that the two brief and vow obnoxious con- 
versations I've had with her have established the 

most cordial relations hotween us! (Lights a 
rette.) 

I Maud sits i r..) 

Mrs. K. What did she talk to von about 

George, About business — and Ohio — and Her 
the Eighth, 

Mrs. K. (1 dly) How revolting! 

(Cviul enters c.e. He shows \o further sign of 
intoxicatio 

Cyril, (As \ers) Hello, Mumsey ! Archie 

Core's getting things ready for a very large time 
out on his boat, / helped him. (Sits o 

' . I 

Mrs, K. (Rather crossly y) 1 fanq 

von did I 

Cyril, (Smilin ! Guess I'll taken lit- 

tle nap, ..'.:• s r. Closes his rj 

Mrs. K. (Mutt Yes, My von' 

tcr! 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 67 

George. (To himself) Yes, sir! Business — 

and Ohio and Henry the haghth! 

(Nancy returns on terrace from l.J 

Nancy. (Calling cheerfully back to up i.J 
Thank von ! ( ( omxng along terrace*— Picks up sew- 
ing bag from chair L. of C.E. ) 

MAUD. (With easy mischief) Did you see the 
view? 

(Athalie looks at Nancy J 

Nancy. (Noticing Cyril sleeping— steps around 
him. Genially) Yes; the hydrangeas. They're 
lovely. (Points this at Athalie. Coming down 

steps to c. ) And there was such a pleasant old 
Italian working' in the garden. (Looking at saving 
bag) 1 waved my hand lo him. (Geor(;e starts. 
Pause. ) 

Atiiai if.. (Looks at Gkorce- then to Nancy J 
Did he wave at you? 

Nancy. (Genially) Yes, indeed. He came and 
talked to me. I le said he'd had a great deal of rheu- 
matism lately . (Broken.) 

George. (Irritated) My Lord! (Gets up and 
goes r.- -As he comes toward her, Atiiai. 11 •: gets up 
and makes room for him on settee. lie ignores Iter 
and (/oes to chair extreme R. and sits. She puts feet 
11 p on settee, in auger.) 

Nancy. (Going on, accepting (he chair as if he'd 
■meant to offer if to her) Thank you, Mr. Reynolds. 
(Sits) But he says his rheumatism's all gone and 
that's a sign we won't have rain Un- a week. (Mrs. 
Kinney gets up — goes fa fa hie e.c. — gets cigarette 
from box — lights it— picks up magazine — goes up 
extreme L. — prctoids to read, .-til frigid. ITowitt 
comes unnoticed from C.E., reading neiespaper. 



68 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Stands c. of terrace, Nancy, after a quiet gU 
abox goes on) I know it's surprising, but there 
: who can tell about the weather by their 

symptoms. I've often seen old John — he's :he one 
Swede thai could ever be trusted with a pair 

trotters to a light surrev — he can tell when rain 

(Broke 

(Howitt comes c.Vn"; down steps, reading.) 

Maud. (Rising and intern.- 
tone a e) I think I know ? 

we all need now. (Going m/> cje. Well have it 
out bere. (Rings bell inside :: 
ti ace. I 
Nancy, /'.-.."• to Howitt. n " Is about to sit 
of steps, '-~ s Mr. Howitt — is E 

oom? 
Howitt. (A at interruption 'What did 

i say? 
Nancy. Is Eleanor in her room? 

(Athalie rises — starts to go to Nancy J 

Howitt. (Rising as if to set where 

'■■' :. ' - - :v .: . ■ red She's coming 
ently. I believe. (Crosses to settee r. and sits. 

SUi 

Nancy, Then I suppose I — — (Broke 

.: .v 

as, K. (As disturbed and \oyed) C 
me! | Bo td 
w:\ (Calling 

:.-\\yc '.c. Athaue appears to be 

Arhalie! ' Mav: shows : magazine 
that has been lying on Photog 

rge in fancy dress — as Plato, (Athaltje 

re cc .v Nancy .:/.::"■:. Mavo c: V e.ce.ir.} Athaiiei 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 69 

fPRuiTT enters with bar-wagon c.e. — places it on 
:r r. of steps. Exits c.e. Maud goes to 
it — begins mixing cocktails. ) 

Athalte. Thought prossibly Miss Uh, hero, 
would be telling us more about the weather — and 
her Swede. / knew a woman that loved a Swede 
once. (To NancyJ Do you love your Swede? 
Perhaps you're too Xew to love Swedes. You are 
frightfully Xew, aren't you? 

Nancy. (Knitting, speaks gently) Yes. I got 
here this morning. 

Athalte. Perhaps you don't love anybody in 
the daytime. (Looking meaningly at George) 
Nothing- interesting- really happens till after dark. 
Don't you hate afternoons? 

Nancy. (Lightly, absently) Oh. sometimes one 

gets a great deal out of an afternoon. (Quietly, 

■ ) I'm certainly getting a lot out of this one. 

'HALIE. (Curiously ) Outside, you're very 

1, Miss Uh, but secretly — secretly — au fond — • 

you're keen on men, aren't you? 

Nancy, (Pleasantly and thoughtfully) Well, I 
met one man to-day that I liked. 

('George tmus away in Jiis chair.) 

Athalte. (Under her breath, as if she had Jtad 
e. : serious reveto ion made to Iter which she 
ht have foreseen) Ah, of course! Parfaitc- 
ment! (She glances over at George, then back at 
Nancy, who goes on knitting without looking up. 
George shifts c msciously and with annoyance in 
his seat.) 

Nancy. (Not noticing Athalie's remark, still 
looking at her knitting) He was so friendly! He 
told me all about his family. 

('George clears Jiis throat — annoyed.) 



70 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Athalie. (Going a step tozvard GeorgeJ Of 
course, yes. He would. (She speaks under her 
breath, seriously, glancing at George. George is 
extremely annoyed. Nancy realises he thinks it is 
he she is speaking of.) 

Nancy. (Continuing after a very short pause) 
It was that old Italian man that works in the gar- 
den. (^George registers this) I liked him. (Very 
gently) He was so kind. 

^George looks at her intently on the word "kind." 
Howitt gets this rap at George and smiles.) 

Athalie. (After a short pause of astonishment ; 
speaking eagerly) Oh, but natural women don't 
like kind men ! (Laughs — goes up to Maud at ter- 
race, rail R.J Didn't you fancy my ragging her? 

Mrs. K. (Crossing to Howitt r.c. — throwing 
"magazine on terrace rail as she goes) I say — when's 
that stunnin' little brooch from Stromberg's comin' 
for Maud? (Voice loud and careless. George gets 
up — goes up r. — back of settee to steps and up on 
terrace to bar-wagon.) 

Howitt. Stromberg's promised it for Monday. 
They're putting on a stronger catch. 

Mrs. K. I wanted it myself but dividends are too 
short. Eleanor must have a money-tree ! 

^Nancy has looked over, taking this in keenly. 
Maud notes this and frowns at Howitt.) 

Howitt. (Annoyed, noting Nancy J It's noth- 
ing to speak of. ( Nancy rises and goes l. Presses 
Mrs. Kinney's hand warningly) Sh ! ^Mrs. Kin- 
ney glances at Nancy and understands. She goes 
tip to rail r. Maud, zl>Jio has finished mixing the 
cocktails, now begins to move the shaker sharply.) 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 7* 

(At the sound of the ice in the shaker, Cyril, who 
has been sound asleep throughout, does not 
wake at once, but lifts one arm and lets it drop 
again upon his breast. s . As the shaker contin- 
ues, he turns over. Then he sits up quickly and 
swings round to front again, looking at it du- 
biously, while the others get theirs. He looks 
around at the others then, and referring to his 
cocktail, says solemnly:) 

Cyril. It's an even shot what's going to happen 
now ! ( Cyril summons his faculties and drinks the 
cocktail, then he looks around and seems to see Mrs. 
Kinney for the first time. Speaks in a loud, hearty 
voice) Why, there's dear old mumsey ! 

^Athalie gets drink — goes down to Howitt on 
settee and gives him one.) 

Mrs. K. (Coldly. Going to Cyril r. of steps) 
You'll go the way your silly old father did ! 

Cyril. Well, he liked it! (Drinks — then sits 
again.) 

("George crosses stiffly to Nancy, carrying a cock- 
tail to her.) 

George. (Offering the cocktail) Ah — ah, Miss 
Price ? 

(Mrs. Kinney goes up steps to bar-wagon. Howitt 
and Athalie finish drinks and put empty 
glasses on table back of settee. Maud and 
Athalie turn to look at this sourly.) 

Nancy. (With a little quick glance at him, drop- 
ping her eyes as she shakes her head. Speaking 
pleasantly) No, thank you. I don't care for any. 



72 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

(Goes up l. Drops sewing bag in chair l. George 
backs tip stage.) 

Maud. Very curious thing- to do, George! 

Athalie. (Back of settee r.c .) I never saw you 
take that much trouble for anybody before, Mon- 
sieur ! 

(George turns away l. Cyril puts empty glass on 
bar-wagon. Eleanor enters c.e.J 

George. Here's one nobody seems to want. 
(Cyril starts up to take it. George sees Eleanor 
in c.E.J Eleanor, you're just in time for it. 

Nancy. Eleanor! (Eleanor about to take it 
from him — stops at sound of her voice. Crosses to 
Nancy — r. of table. Nancy is l. of table. She has 
become serious. Speaks in a lozv but clear voice) 
Eleanor, you don't want that! 

(Eleanor sits in chair r. of table.) 

George. (Offended — to NancyJ You mean / 
shouldn't give it to her? 

Nancy. I mean she shouldn't take it. 

George. Good Heavens ! I'm not a corrupter 
of youth! (All have turned to look at the three. 
The situation becomes a disagreeable little "scene." ) 

Maud. (Stepping down' from terrace to c. 
Quickly on George's speech) What is the disturb- 
ance? Doesn't Eleanor like the cocktails? And I 
thought I was such a good mixer I (Comes c.) 

(Eleanor takes glass out of George's hand.) 
Nancy. Eleanor ! 

(George drops back of table.) 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 73 

MAUD. (To Nancy, affecting good-nature) 
Dear me, Miss Price, is it you criticizing my cock- 
tails? 

Nancy. (Quietly) No." I'm not — criticizing-. 

Maud. But really, don't you suppose Eleanor's 
old enough to know what she likes ? 

Nancy. (Softly) No. 

Maud. (Laughing, but until feeling beneath. 
I'm afraid you don't understand : her father's right 
here. (Turning to HowittJ We might let him 
have a word, mightn't we? 

('Mrs. Kinney and Cyril on terrace watching this 

scene.) 

Howitt. (Patronizingly. Rises — takes a step lJ 
I've no doubt Miss Price has very good intentions ; 
but Eleanor's life now is not the life of a little coun- 
try town. 

Maud, Does seem to be a lot of ado over noth- 
ing! (With affected laughing good-nature) Elea- 
nor's no novice. (To Eleanor ) Afraid of what 
the Ladies' Teetotal Backwoods Sewing Circle will 
say. Eleanor? (Gesture tozvard the cocktail) Don't 
be silly ! 

( Eleanor lifts her glass to her lips and drinks half 
the cocktail. George goes to extreme l.) 

Nancy. (Reaching for glass as she drinks it. 
Sadly) Eleanor? (Her tone is questioning. Elea- 
nor looks back at the glass as if thoughtfully de-> 
bating whether she should finish it. She sets the 
glass dozen. Maud laughs, puts one arm around 
her.) 

Cyril. (Taking another cocktail) There's noth- 
ing like an afternoon tea ! 

Maud. (Briskly, going up to steps) I suppose 



74 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

you know that most of this fine little party is ex- 
pected to dine on Archie Gore's yacht. Going" to 
wear your riding breeches, girls ? Come on ! 

Mrs. K. (Going in c.e .) Take us no time at all ! 

(Exeunt c.e. Mrs. Kinney, Maud, Athalie, and 
Cyril. Eleanor rises — starts to follow them 
— Howitt goes up to r. of steps. Nancy fol- 
lows Eleanor up. George goes down l. of 
table.) 

Nancy. Eleanor, will you wait a minute? 

Eleanor. I'm afraid not, Nancy. 

Nancy. Won't you, please? (She tries to stop 
her.) 

Howitt. (Putting arm around Eleanor, goes up 
steps) I'm sure you won't mind our leaving you. 

(Exeunt r. Eleanor and Howitt c.e. Nancy goes 
up steps slowly and looks after them. George 
perplexed and frowning.) 

George. (In an annoyed tone) Do you mind 
sparing me a moment, Miss Price? 

(She turns, apparently surprised to see him.) 

Nancy. (On top step) No, I don't mind. 

George. Of course, one doesn't ordinarily notice 
every little annoyance, but, still, when one's harassed 

by an attack such as you made upon me 

^Nancy gives him a look. In a tone of cross and 
plaintive protest) I mean this cocktail thing. I'd 
like to say that I'm not in the habit of forcing drinks 
upon infants and children. Just before that, you 
implied that an Italian gardener was the only per- 
son on the whole place who knew what good man- 
ners were. (Turns away — he is grieved, angry and 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 75 

in earnest) Is it your idea that that's any way to 
go about making a hit with a man ? 

Nancy. (Gravely) No. 

George. (Hotly) Then what did you want to do 
it for? 

Nancy. (Coming down to back of chair r. of 
table l.c. Shaking her head wonderingly) Mr. 
Reynolds, it's been quite an experience for me to 
meet you. 

George. (Suspiciously) What do you mean? 
(Steps to her.) 

Nancy. I never met a man before that owned up 
that he couldn't imagine a girl having any interest in 
life except to make a hit with him ! 

George. (Flustered) Miss Price, I've been no- 
ticing you. In fact, I begin to realize that, of course, 
you're not used to men like me, and 

Nancy. Well — almost. One of our drug-clerks 
at home has just the same symptoms about girls 
making hits with him. 

George. (Incredulously. Backs away slowly — - 
in amazement and disgust) Do I remind you of a 
drug-clerk? Of an Ohio drug-clerk? 

Nancy. Oh, of course, there's a difference. 

George. (With superiority and sarcasm) Just 
possibly, I hope ! 

Nancy. Yes, he'd think just the same thing, but 
he wouldn't have owned up to it. 

George. (Nettled) That is to say, you think 
I'm the most conceited man in the whole wide 
world ? 

Nancy. Indeed I don't! (Then, with a genial 
laugh) I haven't traveled enough to say that ! 

George. Perhaps it's that same silly old idea. 
We city people are all a wicked lot, but you and 
your simple village folk are all sweet and pure and 
noble ! 

Nancy. Oh, my, no ! You ought to see some of 



76 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

the riff-raff we've got! (Goes r. to settee. Very 
slight emphasis on "we" Lights begin to grow dim.) 

LIGHTS 

George. (In amazement — quickly, and with feel- 
ing) All because I was civil enough to hand a girl 
a cocktail? 

Nancy. (As if excusing him) Well — of course, 
all that depends 0:1 — the way a person's brought up. 

George. (Testily) And I suppose I've been 
"brought up" badly because I have "third" after 
my name. 

Nancy. (Going to c. With apparently impul- 
sive pity) Oh, nobody can criticize you for that ! 
If your parents wanted you to have your name that 
way — and you don't mind — why, that isn't anybody 
else's business ! 

George. (With some bitterness) And I suppose 
I've been "brought up" badly because the crowd 
snubbed you a while ago ! I suppose you lump us 
together, do you? 

Nancy. (Agreeing) Well, aren't you ? 

George. (Challengingly) Well, we. think we're 
about the right sort ! 

Nancy. (Takes a step to him. Slowly and won- 
deringly) You certainly do ! (Slowly) I'm sure — 
(Then quickly) — I'm sure you all feel that you're — 
"people of distinction !" 

George. That bothers you, does it? 

Nancy. It doesn't bother me ; it just puzzles me ! 

George. (With curiosity) Then, generations of 
position, ancestry and — ah — income mean nothing at 
all to you ? 

Nancy. (Crossing to table. Thoughtfully, smil- 
ing faintly) But — well, the "income" part of it 
wouldn't count with a stranger much, would it ? Be- 
cause you can't carry a great deal around with you 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 77 

— and you can't carry any ancestors at all around 
with you — so, doesn't it seem as if, when you meet a 
stranger, you wouldn't have any position till you 
made it? Really, meeting- a stranger seems to be a 
pretty good test, doesn't it ? 

George. You mean you're a stranger? 

Nancy. I mean that all you can show a stranger 
is what you are. 

George. (Facing front) I see ! (Pause) And 
the last thing about me that you don't like is what I 
am ! (Speaks with an undercurrent of injured dig- 
nity.) 

Nancy. Ah, but I don't know what you are ! It 
seems to me that I've only seen the things you aren't! 

George. (Looks at her) What — what makes 
you think that? 

Nancy. (Half-lightly) Because I don't believe 
that any real man could be so heavenly a snob as 
you seem to be. It must be a pose ! 

George. (Haughtily. Goes front of table and up 
c to steps — she watches him till he goes up steps — 
then she crosses R. ) Thank you ! (On steps) Miss 
Price. (She turns) When those women were treat- 
ing you as they did, I felt a little sorry for you. I 
began to think perhaps we were all wrong and you 
were all right. You've shown me that was a mis- 
take. (Quickly, on this, Eleanor appears in c.eJ 
In all my life no woman has ever spoken to me as 
you just did! I shall not, in any manner, further 
trouble you. And so 

Nancy. (Pleasantly) Come here, Eleanor! 
(^Eleanor comes in. Nancy goes up to her as she 
comes down steps. To GeorgeJ What were you 
saying, Mr. Reynolds? 

George. (Coldly) I said, and so — and so, good 
afternoon ! (Turns — goes along terrace — exits. 
Nancy looks after him gravely.) 

Eleanor. Have you been making more breaks ? 



78 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Nancy. (Leans back against pier r. of steps. 
Kindly) I don't think you need worry, dear. 

Eleanor. (Crosses down to table l.c. and sits R. 
of it. Troubled) I worried so much that papa 
thought he'd better let me come and talk to you. 
Nancy ! (In a despairing tone) That awful scene 
3'OU made over that cocktail ! Papa and I just found 
out that you'd been asking the chauffeur about his 
wages ; and you asked the gardener how many men 
we had working on the place. Papa said he didn't 
object if I asked you what right you had to go pry- 
ing around like that ! 

(Light begins to be fainter.) 

Nancy. (Looking at her, thoughtfully ) I'm glad 
he didn't object, dear. (Going to back of Elea- 
nor's chair) I heard Mrs. Kinney speaking of a 
present for Mrs. Howitt. 

Eleanor. (Defiantly) Certainly I'm giving 
Maud a present. It's nothing but a brooch. Why 
shouldn't I? 

Nancy. I don't know that you. shouldn't. It 
depends on the cost. 

Eleanor. (Decidedly) Maud wouldn't accept 
anything that cost too much ! (Crisply) Besides, 
it's already paid for. 

Nancy. (Comes down around her chair to r. of 
her) How much was it?. 

Eleanor. (Indifferently) I don't know ex- 
actly. 

Nancy. (Smilingly) How can that be if you 
paid for it? 

Eleanor. I gave papa a check. 

Nancy. (Going r. a few steps) But how much 
was the check for? 

Eleanor. (Impatiently) I told you I just gave 
him a check ! f Nancy turns on her in surprise) I 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 79 

just wrote : "Pay to the Stromberg Company" and 
signed my name. Papa said he'd fill in the rest 
when he found out just how much it was going- to 
be. 

Nancy. (Going to her. Startled) Eleanor ! 
You mustn't do such things ! 

Eleanor. I will ! I want to make Maud a hand- 
some present. (Rises) I'd do it even if it came to 
a thousand dollars ! 

Nancy. (Patting hands on her shoulders) Elea- 
nor — you don't understand (Broken.) 

Eleanor. I will ! I'll make presents any time I 
feel like it ! Would you try to interfere in a thing 
like this? (Threatening.) 

Nancy. Why, I might have to interfere. 

Eleanor. (Crossing to r.c.) Oh, you're spoil- 
ing things ! (Turns) You'll queer yourself with 
everybody ! ('Eleanor, looking at her peevishly) 
Don't you see that my life can never again be that 
monotonous, gray life it used to be out there with 
mamma ? 

VICTROLA WARNING 

Nancy. (Speaks slowly and gently) Yes, it's 
pretty monotonous and gray for her. (^Eleanor 
goes slowly to settee as Nancy goes up steps) She 
misses you, Eleanor. 

( Eleanor sits on settee.) 

Eleanor. The most exciting thing we ever did 
was sit out on the porch in the evening — and watch 
the lightning-bugs ! — When they went out, all the ex- 
citement in town was over ! — I can't keep thinking of 
mamma all the time I'm with papa ! 

Amber foots and borders out — LIGHTS 



8o THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

('Nancy goes into house through c.e. to piano. Then, 
very quietly, she begins to play; and she sings 
the song "Absent") 

Song. 

"Ah, sometimes, in the twilight gloom apart, 
The tall trees whisper, whisper heart to heart, 
From my fond lips the eager answers fall, 
Thinking I hear thee, thinking I hear thee call!" 

(As Nancy sings, Eleanor faces front — thinking 
of home — grows a little sad — turns toward c.e. 
— rises — goes slowly up c. to pier r. of steps — 
stops — looks back — goes up steps — sees George 
coming — exits c.e. George appears quietly and 
thoughtfully. He leans against the R. side of 
the doonvay. He has come from terrace up l.) 

George. (Quietly, and a little huskily, looking 
in c.e., only turning his head to speak) Will you 
sing the second verse, Miss Price ? 

Nancy. (Off) 

"Sometimes, between *ong shadows on the grass, 
The little truant waves of sunlight pass. 
My eyes grow dim with tenderness the while. 
Thinking I see thee, thinking I see thee smile!" 

(At the beginning of the second line of the song, 
Maud, off l.u.e. and unseen, bursts into irre- 
pressible, lo.td laughter. Nancy's song stops 
abruptly and her startled fingers sound a loud, 
sharp discord upon the keys, playing no more.) 

Maud. (Rushing in l.u.e. along terrace, cackling, 
hand over mouth — she is in evening dress) I did 
wonder who in this house could be pulling that senti- 
mental slush ! (VICTROLA. Victrola plays "Den- 
gose") Georgie ! You are a devil ! Stringing this 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 8r 

poor little Miss Price into singing her Sunday night 
melodeon repertoire ! 

George. (Trying to protest) But, Maud, I 

(Broken.) 

Maud. (Laughing violently) Oh, you kidder! 
^Nancy comes in c.e. In an ecstacy of mirth) 
Good Lord ! She heard us ! 

George. (Desperately, to Nancy, who gives him 
a steady look of contempt and goes down steps to 
extreme r.) Miss Price, I 

Maud. (Going into house. Calling jovially) 
Athalie, you'd better come and save George from 
having his eyes scratched out! 

Athalie. (Rushing out, dressed for the eve- 
ning) George, take me ! (Tries to make him dance; 
flings herself at him. He throws her off.) 

^Cyril follows, in evening clothes, singing the dance- 
tune loudly; he goes down steps to c, turns — 
calls — "Come on, Athalie." She leaps down 
steps and into his arms — they dance down r. — 
George exits c.e. Howitt and Mrs. Kinney, 
in evening clothes, dance out of c.e. and down 
steps, going l. — Gore enters in yachting clothes 
— speaking as he comes down c. — Maud comes 
in c.e. — on to terrace c.e. J 

Gore. (Shouting) Got the romp all begun, have 
you ? ("Maud sings; all singing with words "Ta, da, 
te, da, da" etc. Stopping) Get your wraps on! 
I've got things on ice out on the boat ! I've got 

Cyril. (Shouting. Dances up stage and off c.e. ) 
Oh, bubbles ! 

Gore. (No pause for CyrilJ I've got five nig- 
gers to play for you to dance ! ( Cyril repeats this 
until his exit. Gore goes on without stopping) Go 
on, now ! Wraps ! Stan, get your cars around. 

STOP VICTROLA 



82 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

(All except Maud, Gore and Nancy go off c.e. 
Nancy's back is toward Gore. He shouts to 
her.) 
Here, go get your duds on ! 

^Nancy turns, looking at him, a little frightened.) 

Maud. (Coming down steps to c Sharply) 
Archie ! You forgot ! 

Gore. (Boisterously) She's not half bad ! 
What's the matter her comin' aboard my boat for 
the party ? She's the kind I like to have aboard ! 

Maud. (Angry) You certainly have been 
aboard your boat ! 

Gore. (Laughing) What's the difference, long 
as she's in harbor? (As Nancy starts to go around 
back of settee to r.c .) Here ! Wait ! 

Maud. (Down c. — sharply) Archie, this is my 
party, isn't it? 

Gore. (Promptly) Why, yes. 

Maud. (Quickly) Then this young lady isn't 
invited. (Smiling and affecting a friendly man- 
ner) She's been traveling and she's too tired. 
(Laughing — goes up steps.) 

Gore. (Smiling and shaking his head to Nancy} 
Sorry ! (Turns — runs up steps and into house — 
going L.J 

('Eleanor appears^ c.e., wearing light wrap. Comest 

down.) 

Eleanor. Vm ready. 

Nancy. (Going up to Eleanor. In a troubled 
voice) Eleanor, just let us two not go ! 

Maud. (Quickly, gaily, speaking to Eleanor} 
I've just ruled that Miss Price is too tired to go. 

Nancy. (In a troubled voice ) Oh, no, I'm not, 
if Eleanor goes. 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 83 

Maud. (Laughing triumphantly — pulling Elea- 
nor away. To Nancy J Oh, yes, you are ! We 
won't let you into the motor ! You're going- to stay 
and rest. (As she goes off c.e., calling back from 
off-stage) Come on, Eleanor ! It's Liberty Hall 
to-night ! (Exits — laughs off-stage up L.J 

(Eleanor starts to follow her.) 

Nancy. (Up to her — stops her) Eleanor, 
please ! Just stay here with me this evening. 
(Pleadingly) Don't go ! 

(Romping and shouting heard off up l.) 

Cyril. (Off up l v bellowing) All ready for the 
big show ! 

(Voices off-stage repeat this.) 

Eleanor. Maud's right: you wouldn't enjoy it 
— and if you want me to be frank, nobody else would 
either! (Trying to break away.) 

Nancy. (Quickly) She said that to you ! 

Eleanor. Tell the butler when you want dinner. 
(Runs into house.) 

(Voices heard singing "Liberty Hall" off-stage as 
she exits. Maud, with Mrs. Kinney, Cyril, 
Howitt and Athalie, the three women wear- 
ing light wraps, the men in light coats, come 
running in c.e. in line, holding one another's 
coattails — Eleanor leading. — All singing: "Lib- 
erty Hall to-night — to-night — to-night — Lib- 
erty Hall to-night — to-night — to-night — to- 
night." Keeping step — they go down steps to c. 
— turn l. — go down around table and exit L. 
2nd entrance — repeating song as they go.) 

(All lights remain set as they are till finish.) 

LIGHTS 



8 4 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

(No pause in action. All this very brief, leaving 
Nancy on the stage alone, looking after them, 
with grave trouble. Shouting and singing of the 
dance-tune is immediately heard off l. The 
noise dies out for a moment, and is heard much 
more faintly with an echo of the tune, sung off 
l. Nancy crosses quickly and looks off l. The 
noise dies out. She crosses slowly and exits 
c.e v her head bent. Sunset light-up has deep- 
ened; the stage has grown somewhat darker 
since the departure of the yachting party. Si- 
lence for a moment. A middle-aged man, 
Blake, dressed in a dark sack-suit, black shoes, 
black derby hat, appears up of gate up r. En- 
ters gate u.r. — comes to c. — Hearing noise of 
party in the distance — goes l. — looks off a mo- 
ment — turns back to house and is going up steps 
as Nancy comes out of c.eJ 

Nancy. What— do you want ? 

Blake. (Slightly nervous. Backs down steps) 
I — I beg- your pardon. I'm a messenger. 

Nancy. From whom? 

Blake. I beg your pardon, but Mr. Howitt is 
the only one I know here. Is he (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Suspiciously) Mr. Howitt is not at 
home. I'm alone here with the servants — but there 
plenty of them. 

Blake. (Somewhat resentful) I'm not a burg- 
lar, madam ! I'm from Stromberg-'s. 

Nancy. (Remembering) With a brooch ? (Con- 
trolling a slight excitement.) 

Blake. (Stiffly) Certainly, madam. And a 
sneak-thief might have a brooch on him, but he 
wouldn't be very anxious to turn it over on receipt. 

Nancy. Mr. Howitt said the clasp wouldn't be 
ready until Monday. (Her tone is suspicious.) 

Blake. (Smiling) Mr. Stromberg prides him- 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 85 

self on being a little ahead with deliveries, when he 
can ; and Mr. Howitt was anxious to get it as soon 
as possible. (Takes packet from pocket. Going to 
table l.cJ I think it will convince you that I am a 
respectable man. 

WARNING. YACHT MUSIC 

Nancy. (Coming down steps. Goes r.c. With 
a slight re-echo of suspicion) Yes — if it is the 
brooch. 

Blake. (Starting to open the packet) We can 
easily settle that. And Mr. Stromberg was pretty 
sure that you'd all be very much pleased. 

^Pruitt enters c.e., halts just R. of entrance, for 
only a moment, looking at Nancy and Blake. 
Blake stops opening the package and looks ner- 
vously from Nancy to the servant.) 

Pruitt. I beg- pardon, madam. Both chauffeurs 
have come back from the dock and they say Mr. 
Howitt forgot to tell them what time to return there. 
May I ask, did Mr. Howitt mention what time he ex- 
pected to get back ? 

Nancy. No ; he didn't say anything about it. 

Pruitt. Thank you, madam ! What time shall 
I serve dinner? 

Nancy. Whenever it's ready. 

Pruitt. Thank you, madam. (Exits c.eJ 

Blake. (He has been looking keenly from 
Pruitt to Nancy and back, and now smiles as he 
opens the inner case, which zuas contained in the 
packet, and discloses the brooch) There ! A man 
that's trusted to bring a twenty-five-thousand-dollar 
pin would hardly be slipping in to steal your hus- 
band's overcoat, would he, ma'am? (^Nancy is 
stunned. For a moment she does not move. Then 
slowly, her eyes fall from Blake's face to the 



S6 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

brooch. Blake smiles upon her. Benevolently, in- 
terpreting her emotion) It is rich, isn't it, ma'am? 
(Taking an unsealed envelope from his pocket, and 
therefrom a billhead, and laying it, unfolded, beside 
the jewel-case upon the table. Speaking briskly) 
There's our receipt for the check Mr. Howitt sent, 
ma'am. And here's your receipt to us for the brooch. 
(Crossing back of her to l.c.J If you'll please sign 
it. (Offers her a black blank-book and his foun- 
tain-pen. Nancy stands, with parted lips, looking 
at him for one moment. Then, with a gesture of de- 
cision, she takes the pen and writes quickly, then re- 
turns the pen and book to him. He has taken a 
small blotter from his pocket and quickly blots her 
writing) Thank you, Mrs. Howitt. (Turns toward 
r.u.e. and taking his hat. Then turns again to 
Nancy. Going up r v benevolently) I imagine you 
don't think I'm a burglar now! 

Nancy. (Slowly) No. 

Blake. (At r.u.e., with feeling) Good night, 
Mrs. Howitt. 

Nancy. (In a low voice) Good night. 

(Exit Blake gate r. Nancy slowly turns her head 
to stare at the brooch again. She closes the case 
mechanically and with both hands, gathers case, 
wrappings and receipt together, stares at them, 
then, with quick decisiveness, she places them 
in her sezving-bag ; she stands for a moment 
staring front, in deep thought. From up off R. 
and very distant, come yacht music, the faint 
sounds of the "Deyigozo" music played by vic- 
trola. Carrying the sewing-bag under her arm, 
Nancy crosses to l. and stands looking out into 
the darkness in the direction of the music. 
Pruitt appears.) 

CURTAIN WARNING 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 87 

Pruttt. (At c. of top step) Dinner will be 
ready in about ten minutes, madam! (Takes tray 
from bar-wagon. After a look off l.u.e. listens to 
music a second) You can hear the music from Mr. 
Gore's yacht quite plain across the water, can't you, 
madam? (Going down steps to c.) Beg pardon, 
madam, can you see Mr. Reynolds ? 

Nancy. (In a dazed voice) What? 

Pruttt. (Turning toward her, deferentially, 
amused at her thought) Oh, I didn't mean on the 
yacht, madam. That would be asking - for good eye- 
sight. Mr. Reynolds didn't go with Mr. Gore's 
party. He's here somewhere. He asked me to let 
him know when dinner was ready. There'll only be 
you and Mr. Reynolds at table, madam — (With a 
confidential semi-laugh) — and he did seem anxious 
to know how you'd feel about that. 

Nancy. Oh, did he? I'll be down in ten min- 
utes. (She sweeps up to steps, going to exit.) 

Pruitt. (Backs away — making room for her to 
go up steps) In fact, Mr. Reynolds asked me to re- 
member the exact words you used. (It is this speech 
of his which halts her c.e.J 

Nancy. (Furious, but controlled) Very well ! 
Do you think Mr. Reynolds knows whether it was 
Iowa or Ohio that General William Tecumseh Sher- 
man came from? Do you suppose he knows what 
General Sherman said — — (Broken.) 

Pruitt. (A little rattled, but polite) I could see 
about it, madam. He's just yonder. (Starting to 
go up steps.) 

Nancy. (Furiously) No! 77/ tell him! 

(Turns to c.e v apparently seeing George. Pruitt 
goes to table r.c, puts empty glasses on tray. 
After a moment George appears at c.eJ 

George. (As he enters, blankly) She told me 



88 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

what she thought about having dinner with me was 

the same that General Sherman thought about 

(Checks himself, remembering that Pruitt is not a 
confidant) Pruitt, what was that thing General 
Sherman said about war ? 

Pruitt. (Making hasty exit with tray) Oh, 
that. As a matter of fact, sir, General Sherman 
denied ever having said it at all! (Turns and ex- 
its R.) 

MEDIUM FAST CURTAIN 

Playing time: — 47 minutes. 



ACT III 

Scene: After dinner the same evening. Interior. 
Room looking out on terrace; French zvindows. 
Cheerfully lighted. It is entirely dark out of 
doors. Nancy stands in c.e. — looking off. She 
wears a handsome and becoming evening dress, 
well in the style. She carries her sewing-bag. 
A moment later, Pruitt enters with a tray on 
which is an after-dinner coffee service and tzvo 
cups. He comes to l. end of couch R.c. — stops 
— speaks. — Looking up to her. 

Pruitt. (Entering with coffee, etc. Apologetic- 
ally) Mrs. Howitt's instructions have been always 
to serve coffee, after dinner, for both the ladies and 
gentlemen in here, madam. But Mr. Reynolds just 
asked me to ascertain whether that would be agree- 
able to you. 

Nancy. (Turning — comes to top step. Frown- 
ing) Did he ask if it would be "agreeable" to me? 

Pruitt. Yes, madam. 

Nancy. (Grimly) Well, after that dinner, if he 
thinks it would be "agreeable" to him — tell him — all 
right. 

(Pauses after "tell him" then finishes crisply and 
quickly. She comes down steps — crosses to l. 
of table l.c. — walks up and down stage.) 

Pruitt. Thank you, madam. (Crosses to table 
L.c. — puts down tray — pours coffee. Exits r.e. 
Nancy sits l. of table.) 

8 9 



90 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

(A moment later George appears r.e. He is in eve- 
ning dress: his expression ana 1 manner are very 
serious and he seems gravely disturbed. Nancy, 
after a quick, quiet glance at him, opens her 
sewing-bag, begins to sew, and continues to sezo 
thoughtfully, apparently unaware of George's 
presence. George comes across to R. of fable 
and stands there, staring at her. then goes R. 
to couch — stands looking at her, annoyed. 
Pruitt re-enters r.e.. with tray — two decanters 
and poncy glasses on it. Places tray on table 
up R.e., places chair from up r. to r. of to 
for George. George, noting this with a slight 
start, moves as if to sit down in the chair, but 
does not. Pruitt goes back to serving table. 
George goes r. to couch and sits l. end of it. 
Pruitt crosses with tray of cordials to Nancy 
at table L.C.J 

Pruitt. (To Nancy ) Liqueur, ma'am? 
Nancy. No, thank you. 

(Pruitt goes to George, at couch r.c. I 

Pruitt. ( To George ) Your brandy, sir. (This 
is not an inquiry.) 

George. (About to take decanter. With a slight 
start) Uh — no, thank you. 

( Pruitt bows — goes back to serving table, puts 
do:. . George rises, i cigarette ft 

his pocket. He looks curiously at Nancy. He 
wishes to smoke, but is afraid to ask her per- 
mission. Nancy goes on knitting. Pruitt 
comes down to George with match stand, lig 
a match and offers it to George. George, a'r 
to light his cigarette, gives a glance at Nancy 
and draws back.) 

George. Uh — no. thank you. 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 91 

fPRUiTT bows — goes up to tabic up r.c. — puts down 
matches and exits r.e. Nancy has not once 
looked 'round at George. George looks at his 
unlighted cigarette and then at her. and carry- 
ing the cigarette in his hand, goes up steps c. 
and looks out.) 

Nancy. (Quietly, looking up from her knitting, 
as he stands looking out. Pushes match stand to- 
ward him ) Hadn't you better light your cigarette? 

George. (Astonished) Oh! (Comes reek to 
table) Oh, thanks. (Lights cigarette) Quite start- 
led me — your speaking. (He speaks in a rather 
humble tone) Last time you were gracious enough 
to address me was when the soup was served. I be- 
lieve. 

NANCY. (Knitting, not smiling nor looking at 
him ) I had to then, to keep you from burning 
yourself, 

George. Ah — thanks! (He sits R. of table and 
drinks his coffee. Pause) Sorry the coffee wasn't 
hot enough to start all that talkativeness again. 

NANCY. (Still knitting, not looking up ) Why 
should I talk? I haven't anything to say. 

George. (With dignity I Wouldn't it be merely 
civil to say that you accept what I said : that Maud 
Howitt was mistaken? — I did viol ask you to sing-. 
this afternoon, with the idea of laughing: either at 
you or the song. 

NANCY. (As before) Very well. I believe 

you. 

George. (After a short pause, looking at her 
with sonic surprise and injury) Is that all? 

Nancy. (Looking at him, perplexed) "Is that 

aiir 

George. (Earnestly) See here : don't you think 
a man might have liked to be out yonder dancing 
with a jolly crowd, instead of putting in an evening 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

like this? (With feeling as he rises) You don't 
seem to realize that I ga-qe that up just in order to 
stay here and straighten this thing out with you. 
mse. He walks to up c, and looks 

She resumes her knitting. At r.c.e. He 

ward her argumentatively, again) It was a thing I 

felt was due to myself. 

Nancy. (Knitting, speaks indt v) Well, 

you've done it. You've paid yourself. 

George. (Annoyed, Down c. to her) I say! 
You do have a way of making a man uncomfortable ! 
(Sits in chair r. of table) 1 say, something's wor- 
n-ins: you. isn'r it? I remember being told as a child 
that people were usually rude when they were wor- 
ried about something. 

Nancy, (Knitting) You're a living proof that 
that can't be true, Mr. Reynolds. 

George. But I'm positive I'm correet. (With o 
twinkle ) You see. as you never looked up during 
dinner — except on your Christian kindness about 
the soup — the fact is— I — well — / — did! You di< 
know it. but I looked up all the time, in fact It 
was on account of where I was looking that I came 
so near burning myself! (1 towo 

: in a tone s ■: ) There! 

You see I admit I was — ah — interested. 

Nancy, (Non-committal I suppose that's 

quite a stram. Mr. Reynolds. Cc : stitches,) 

George. (Antagonized for ti \) I might 

mention that I'm not used to quite so much knitting 
when I take an .'teres; ! 

Nancy, (Amiab Yes. You seem to be 

"used" to the kind of thing Ben Bolt was, Mr. 
Reynolds ! 

"She sobbed with delight when you gave her a 
smile. — 
And trembled with fear ar your frown !" 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 93 

George. (Disturbed, rises, goes r. to R.c. ) Is 
habitual rudeness considered a virtue in O — Ohi — 
in your part of the country ? 

Nancy. (Tunis, looking at him) Rudeness? 
Why, when I met you, when you came to Centre- 
ville — at first I was as friendly and expansive as 
a setter pup. I don't think I ever did behave more 
neighborly to anybody on first sight. 

George. (Flustered, going to chair r. of table ) 
Well — we — here — we — we don't understand that 
"neighborly" sort of rhino-. as you call it. at first. 

Nancy. No. you don't seem to\ You seem to 
consider it insulting. It must be that you're not 
used to it. 

George. (Explaining, kindly ) Of course, one 
has to be a little on one's guard, doesn't one? Oth- 
erwise, mightn't the oddest sort of people be getting 
in with one? 

Nancy. (Genially) I understand. That's why 
you had to be on your guard with me at first. I 
might have turned out to be the "oddest sort" of 
people. (Rises, goes up to upper end of mantel — 
pushes button. Taking sewing-bag with her.) 

George. (Honestly and earnestly ) But don't 
you see? I got over all that. (Reasonably, up of 
chair r. of table ) But by the time I'd got polite to 
you. you'd got /;;;polite to me. 

Nancy. (TJi ought fully and not boasting) Yes, 
I'm sure you feel it's safer to be impolite to people 
until you make up your mind they're all right, (c.) 
In our part of the country we're polite to people 
until we make up our minds they ought to be 
in jail. 

George. (Goina toward her) That is, you wait 
to lock the stable door until after the horse is stolen. 

Nancy. No. we go and sret him back — and hang 
the fellow that stole him ! Only, we never hang him 
before we get really acquainted -with him. 



94 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

fPRUiTT enters r.e. — Nancy indicates coffee things 
— he crosses to table — picks up tray and quickly 
exits r.e. Nancy has come down l. during this 
— crosses R. to r.c. — George following her, 
speaking as he goes.) 

George. So far as I can see, you re ready to 
hang a man without even telling him what he's done! 
I don't understand it: I'm a guest in your own 
cousin's house ; an intimate friend of her father's 
and her step-mother's, one of the circle about her. 
What's the matter? 

Nancy. That might be the matter — partly. 
("Partly" a second thought, an amused one.) 

George. (Quickly and sharply) Oh, because I 
am their friend and a visitor here. How's that 
against me? 

("Nancy begins to laugh good-naturedly, but a little 
grimly, too.) 

Nancy. Eleanor scolded me for telling small- 
town stories, but you do remind me of old Millie 
Swanter when they quarantined her with the Lingle 
family after they'd all been exposed to smallpox. 
"You can't quarantine me," she said, "I'm only a 
boarder /" (Concluding, she turns — goes up steps 
to c.e. and looks out.) 

George. (Crosses l. to chair l.cJ And I'm a 

visitor ; I see you include me, then — with 

(Broken.) 

Nancy. (She turns, with semblance of a little 
bozv to him) With these other "people of distinc- 
tion" that her father promised her. 

George. (Up to her) Meaning that you've de- 
cided our little crowd here are rather a tainted lot? 

Nancy. (Inquiring) "Tainted?" (Then, as not 
going so far) Oh (Comes slowly down steps.} 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 95 

George. (Goes r. to r.c.J Oh, of course one 
can't set up a code of morals. I don't pretend I 
like everything I see in a little set like this. One 
always overlooks some things in almost any set ; 
there'd be pretty well no good times if one didn't. 

Nancy. (Almost inaudibly) Ah! (Laughs — 
goes to mantel l.J 

George. (Going up to her. Huskily) How un- 
pleasantly you do think of me ! 

Nancy. (Goes to back of chair l. of table. Se- 
riously) I don't think of you at all — except as you 
concern my cousin. 

George. (Blankly) Little Eleanor? 

Nancy. (Defiant note, and troubled) Yes! 
Don't you see I'm thinking of her? 

George. Well, / — wasn't. (Going near her.) 

Nancy. (Half -sorrow fully, half -scornfully) No, 
and I don't suppose you often would. That's the 
trouble: I'm afraid you'd always be thinking — 
(Pauses — continues slowly and gently) — of George 
Tewksberry Reynolds — Third. (Going down l.) 

George. (Stung) I say : just suppose you for- 
get that "third!" 

Nancy. (Laughs) No. There's not enough 
fun in life to give up the memory of a thing like 
that. (Goes up l. to upper end of mantel — leans 
arm upon it — laughing.) 

George. You do hate me. don't you? 

Nancy. (Quickly and emphatically) No. 

George. (Goes up l.c to her. Earnestly ap- 
pealing) TELL me what's the matter with me? 

Nancy. (With spirit) There's NOTHING 
the matter with you; that's the trouble. You do 
nothing wrong because you do nothing at all. (Go- 
ing to him — back of table) What is in your life? 
What do you CARE for? Some day your country- 
may need great actions. You think the time will 
ever come when you — (Slight emphasis) — can be 



96 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

roused to a great action — to a thing generous and 
heroic? Why, look! Half the world's on fire and 
YOU'RE worrying over suitcases! (Goes down l. 
of table to extreme l.J 

George. (Looks front, thinking. Puzzled and 
loudly, earnest. Nancy zvalks up and down l. dur- 
ing this) Upon my soul ! I DO wish I knew what 
on earth you're talking about ! What ARE you 
talking ab- (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Satirical, as if giving a nonsense an- 
swer, yet she means it, and this is what she has 
really been talking about. Going up to him) The 
United States and the Kaiser Wilhelm! (Goes Hp 
steps — looks off c.e .) 

George. (Taken utterly aback, and as if object- 
ing in the midst of his puzzlement) The Kaiser? 
The Kaiser? The United States and the Kaiser? I 
don't see at all how you could mean 

Nancy. (Quickly) It's just what I DID mean. 

George. (Slowly — thinking) By Jove, I shall 
have to think that out. I mean to, you know, I 
mean to think it out. (Goes to couch r. and sits.) 

Nancy. I'm afraid you won't have time. (After 
count of 5 voices heard off R. Listening off. ) 

George. I'll keep at it till I (Broken .) 

(Noise of Mrs. Kinney's, Athalie's, and Cyril's 
voices, off R. Athalie, in her wraps, but some- 
what tousled, enters c.e., speaking excitedly as 
she comes.) 

Athalie. (Standing on landing c.) George. 
Did you miss me ? 

Nancy. (Taking a step toward her) Is Eleanor 
there ? 

Athalie. No — she's coming in the other motor. 
She's all in. ^Nancy on steps, crosses to George, 
who is r. on couch) George, say you missed me! 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 97 

( Not pausing for a reply, she throws herself upon 
l. arm of settee r.c.) Had such a big romp it broke 
tip the party. I adore to see men fight ! 

George. (Rises quickly; frowning) Somebody 
got in a fight? 

Athalie. ('Nancy looking off r. — on terrace. 
With champagney ecstacy and intensity) If it 
weren't for you, George, I could love that man 
Archie Gore ! He never ought to go without drink. 
When he's had his goblet of brandy, he's his best 
self, a gorgeous, adorable brute ! One moment he 
was dancing with Eleanor — ^Nancy registers this) 
— singing and merry, and the next he saw Cyril 

Kinney tickling Maud's back with a spoon 

(Grandiloquently ) It was epatant, colossal — like a 
primordial god ! (More naturally and briskly) He 
caught Cyril on the point of the chin and knocked 
him clear across the deck! 

Nancy. (Stepping in. Tensely) Eleanor saw 
that? (Voices.) 

Athalie. (Rises) Nobody missed it. Archie 
Gore is a superb he! (To George J Look what he 
did ! (Crosses l. to behind table L.c.J 

(Gestures to c.e., where Pruitt and Mrs. Kinney 
appear, holding up Cyril. Cyril holds his 
handkerchief to his chin.) 

Cyril. (As they enter c.e. from along terrace 
R.J I don't want to be all right. I'm satisfied the 
way I am. I got a perfect right to tickle every- 
body; and I'll tickle 'em, too! (Drops into chair l. 
of c.e. Pruitt goes to door up L.J 

Mrs. K. (Going front of Cyril to l. of him) 
It's a rotten shame ! I guess Archie Gore doesn't 
own Maud Howitt, does he? 

(^Eleanor, dragging her wrap, very pale, and hold- 



9 8 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

ing her arm across forehead as if in pain, enters 
quickly c.e. George, seeing her, goes up r. back 
of piano to rail.) 

Nancy. (Standing r. of c.e. — catches her as she 
staggers in) Eleanor ! Come up to your room with 
me. (Puts arm around her.) 

Eleanor. ^Nancy helping her down steps — they 
go R. Painfully, quickly) Get Cyril out of here, 
Mrs. Kinney. Maud and papa are keeping Mr. 
Gore talking outside — but they can't do much with 
him. Get Cyril upstairs ! (Sits l. end of couch r. 
— Nancy above her.) 

CPruitt helps Mrs. Kinney get Cyril to l.u. 
Nancy moves toward Eleanor, who is still 
holding her head. George takes Mrs. Kin- 
ney's place at one side of Cyril. ) 

Mrs. K. (Sharply to Cyril, as they go) See 
what you started ! 

Cyril. (As they go) What's the yacht for? 

(Exeunt George, Cyril and Pruitt, up l.e v Mrs. 
Kinney following them. Eleanor still hold- 
ing her head. Nancy takes her hand. Atha- 
lie has followed the other group toward l.e. 
and stands listening, excitedly, and looking off 

C.E.J 

Athalie. (Turning toward Eleanor and 
Nancy,) They're taking Cyril up the back way. 
Gore's raging. (With pleased excitement) He's 
hunting him all over the place. Ooh ! (She gives 
a delighted little scream, looking off c.e. again. As 
Gore enters — she goes l. to railing — watches fol- 
lowing scene.) 

fGoRE enters c.e., from along terrace R v followed 
closely by Maud, and giving the effect of hav- 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 99 

ing just broken from her grasp. He is drunk, 
but does not stagger nor mispronounce. He is 
heavily flushed but not in disorder. Howitt 
appears in c.e. anxiously. Nancy rises above 
Eleanor, covering her from, sight.) 

Gore. (Leaping dozvn steps to c. As he enters, 
harshly) I'll break the last bone in his body ! (Goes 
down r.c. and back c.) I will if I get him! 

Maud. (Sharply, coming down c.) Don't be a 
fool, Archie ! 

Gore. (Striding about the room) I did land him 
one, but I didn't get it in right. (Crosses to her) 
Think I'll stand any other man pawing over my 
best girl ? 

Maud. (Shrilly, with great vehemence) Shut 
up, Archie ! (Goes to him.) 

Gore. (Suddenly offended with her, and angry) 
What's the matter? (To c.) 

Maud. (Nervously) Nothing. You've had a 
little too much, Archie, and it's made you ugly. 

Gore. (Harshly. Breaking away. Goes down 
r.c. — then back to her) Oh, it has, has it? I sup- 
pose you want me (Broken.) 

Maud. You just, let Stan look after you. (Goes 
up steps — to rail R.) 

Gore. (Going dozvn l. — then back to c. As if 
controlling his rage) I'll go! I'll go back — sleep 
on my own boat ! (He strides toward c.e. Howitt 
comes to meet him, with his hand lifted as if to as- 
sist Gore. Gore does not pause, but speaks harshly 
to Howitt ) Keep your hands off me ! (Strides out 
c.e., followed by Howitt. Maud stares after them 
tensely, then exits r.u.e.J 

Athalie. What a man! (Goes to l.u.e. and ex- 
its. Nancy stands looking gravely at Eleanor; 
Eleanor looks slowly up at her.) 

Eleanor. Papa and Maud were there to look 



ioo THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

after me. I was all right. I haven't learned to take 
that much champagne! (Rises — backs azuay R.) 

Nancy, I guess I won't stand any talk! I can't 

Nancy. (Gently) No, I see you can't, to-night. 
All I'll do to-night is just get you to bed. ("Maud 
enters r.u.e. — sees this. She puts her arm around 
Eleanor and helps her toward exit r.) Come on, 
dear, and I'll tuck you in. We'll just pretend we're 
home. 

(Exeunt Nancy and Eleanor r.e. Nancy has car- 
ried her sewing-bag throughout. After a mo- 
ment, Maud goes to table, in a tired attitude, 
and lights a cigarette. Enter Howitt c.e. 
Comes down steps and goes R.) 

Maud. (As he enters) You got him off? 

fHowiTT nods gravely; begins to walk back and 
forth across the room.) 

Howitt. (Coming down r.c. In a sharp, low 
voice) I didn't know Eleanor was overdoing it so ! 
Where is she? 

Maud. (Wearily, sits l. of table) Gone up- 
stairs with that Price girl. 

Howitt. (Going c.) What did you let her do 
that for? Especially after 

Maud. (Impatiently) Eleanor's too done up to» 
listen to her — or understand her! 

Howitt. (Bitterly) I'd almost call that fortu- 
nate after that break made by your friend Gore! 

Maud. (Sharply) Now, I won't (Broken.) 

Howitt. His delicate allusion (Broken.) 

Maud. Oh, good heavens ! 

(Enter Pruitt r.) 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 101 

Pruitt. Mr. Strombcrg called up by long dis- 
tance, while you were out, ma'am. 

Maud. (Pettishly) Oh, I suppose he wants to 
say I couldn't have my brooch Monday, after all. 

Pruitt. No, madam. Mr. Stromberg was anx- 
ious to know if everything was satisfactory. 

Maud. Oh, he did send it, then? Where is it? 
Pruitt. Nothing was left with me, madam, or 
any of the domestics. 

Howitt. (Crossly, not taking interest) Of 
course not ! How ridiculous ! 

Maud. What time was the messenger here? 
Pruitt. A few minutes after you left for Mr. 
Gore's yacht, madam. At least I suppose it was the 
messenger. 

Maud. Who let him in? 

Pruitt. Miss Price saw him on the terrace, 
madam. ^Maud looks at Howitt. ) 

Howitt. (Snubbing Maud's questioning ) Miss 
Price ? He wouldn't have left it with her. He had 
no authority to. 

Maud. Did you notice — was he carrying a pack- 
age? 

Pruitt. No, madam, not carrying it. He was 
just opening it for- her. 

Howitt. (Halting — incredulously) He was? 
Pruitt. Yes, sir. 

Howitt. He — he certainly didn't leave it with' 
Miss Price, did he? 

Pruitt. I couldn't say, sir. 
Maud. Did you hear him speak to Miss Price 
by name ? 

Pruitt. No, madam. 
Maud. Did you speak to her by name? 
Pruitt. No, madam. I just spoke to her as 
"madam." 

Maud. That's all. 

Pruitt. Thank you, madam. (Exits r.eJ 



102 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Howitt. (He stands frowning a moment, then 
speaks) Funny the messenger's showing it to her. 

Maud. (Looking straight front, not at Howitt, 
speaks with decision) She's got it ! 

Howitt. (Crossly) They don't leave things 
like that with casual visitors. They'd have to have 
your signature or mine. 

Maud. They don't know mine. Couldn't she 
sign it? 

Howitt. (Going up c.) It's impossible. He 
wouldn't have left it with her — (Slower. Goes to 
her) — not unless he thought she was Mrs. 
Howitt. 

Maud. (Rises and goes R. Turning sharply to 
How itt ) She was alone here. That messenger 
took her absolutely for Mrs. Howitt — and she let 
him. 

Howitt. (Going l. Frowning) Curious way 
to behave — if she did. 

Maud. One thing's certain: she didn't do it to 
oblige us ! 

Howitt. No ! (Sorely.) 

Maud. (Going c.) Well, that brooch is mine, 
and I want it. 

Howitt. (Turning to her sharply ) Wait. Driv- 
ing down to the dock, Eleanor asked me if the 
brooch came to a thousand dollars. This Price girl 
had been making her nervous, I suppose, over ex- 
penses. Well — I told Eleanor it was five thousand ! 

Maud. All right; let her think it was five. 
(Steps away r. to couch.) 

Howitt. (Steps after her. Quickly) I sent 
them her check for twenty-five yesterday. (She 
turns) There isn't a chance on earth but that Strom- 
berg sent the receipt out here with the brooch, and 
the Price girl's got it, — if she's got the brooch. 

(Enter George c.e.J 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 103 

George. (Coming to c.) Uh ^Maud 

Howitt starts at sound of his voice) Do you know 
is Miss Price coming down again ? 

Howitt. (Giving her a hint) Maud was just 
going up to ask her if she wouldn't come down for 
a little talk with us. ("Maud goes to R. of piano.) 

George. Oh ! 

Maud, f Grimly, going to r.eJ She'll come! 
That's all I'll ask her to do. 

(Stan nods. Exit Maud r.e. Howitt goes up r. 
back of piano, looking after Maud — frowning. 
George comes down steps — goes slowly to chair 
r. of table.) 

George. (Rather dreamily) Odd world, isn't it? 

Howitt. Very. 

George. (Still dreamily) You know I've never 
liked many people. I wonder if they've thought 
much about it ? 

Howitt. I dare say not. 

George. It just struck me that you can think a 
great deal about people not liking you. In fact, 
you can think most of all about somebody that dis- 
likes you. 

- Howitt. (Paying no attention — with his back 
tozvards GeorgeJ I dare say. 

George. (Gently) Yes. (About to sit in chair 
R. of table) Fine night out, isn't it? 

Howitt. (Turns — goes to c.) George, would 
you mind going out for a while? ^Maud enters) 
Maud and I have something rather intimate to talk 
over with Miss Price. 

George. (Going to steps c. Blankly) Oh! Cer- 
tainly ! 

Howitt. Thank you. 

Maud. Oh — eh (^George exits c.e. How- 
itt motions her not to speak. She goes to him at c.) 



io4 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Eleanor's asleep. They didn'1 talk. Her maid told 

me. (In a breath) We'll ^et thai brooch and get 

rid of her, tool 

1 1 ow itt. Where's 

(Nancy ruins k.k., carrying her sewing-bag. She 
stands k.c, looking at HOWITT. Maud goes 
R.C. to Nancy. I low itt stands C., looking se- 
verely at Nancy. ) 

Maud. (Starts to Speak - weakens. Turns to 
lTowriTJ I thought I'd just lei you ask Miss Price 
about it, Stan, in case 

IIowitt. (Takes a step towards Nancy) Yes. 
It's aboul the jeweller's messenger thai you saw this 

afternoon. Miss Price (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Comprehending, speaks quietly) Oh, 
about him. (Sits l. end of couch r. ) 

IIowitt. (Merely questioning) lie left Airs. 

Howitt's brooch with von? And the receipt? (She 
does not speak) You didn't understand me. I'm 
asking for Mrs. Howitt's brooch. 

NANCY. ( Lifeless /one ) I'll talk about that with 
Eleanor -when she can. 

( Maud gives IIowitt a look— 'Crosses to chair L.C. I 

HOWITT. (Stiffening, doing to Nancy) May 
1 ask when von propose to consider thai she "can"? 
Nancy. (Significantly) Not to-night. 
IIowitt. (Incredulously) You surely don't 

mean that von refuse to turn over my wife's prop- 
erty when she demands it ? 

Nancy. I'll speak of it only ie> Eleanor, 
Maud. (Sits chair l.c. Sharply) Make her ad- 
mit she's got it ! 

Howitt. It strikes me she has admitted it — 

rather! (To Nancy) You actually wish to put 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 105 

yourself in the position of declining to turn over 
M rs. 1 1 < ) wilt's brooch to her, do you ? (Short pause) 
Very well ! I didn't believe you'd walk into this 
house and take something without thinking your- 
self, in some crazy way, in the right about it. 

Nancy. (After giving him a long, keen look) 
Go on, Mr. Howitt. 

Howitt. It strikes me that perhaps your Uncle 
Ben left you out of his will 'because he knew you had 
— traits such as have just come to Our notice, here. 
Wasn't that the reason he left it all to Eleanor? 

Nancy. (Mildly) Oh, no. The reason he lefl 
it all to Eleanor was because the rest of us were 
getting on all right. But Eleanor's mother had had 
all her money spent for her, long ago. 

Howitt. (Controlling himself with difficulty) 
Miss Price, my wife and I are willing to keep the 
whole thing quiet even from Eleanor herself. All 
you've got to do is to turn that brooch over to me at 
once, with the receipt that came with it, and to- 
morrow you can pack up and make some excuse for 
being called back home. 

("Nancy chuckles at this.) 

.Maud. Well, well? (Rises.) 

Howitt. Now, Miss Price. 

Maud. Stop being polite! 

Howitt. I will. It's about time we stopped be- 
ing polite to you ! 

Nancy. You can't, you can't stop anything you 
haven't begun. ("Howitt goes up c, then down 
L.cJ 

Maud. (Crossing to Nancy,) Don't you take 
that tone with us. You think you'll tell Eleanor 
about the price of that brooch, and make a great 
hit with her and damage her father, don't you? 
/Howitt up and down l.c. during this) Of course, 



106 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

we'll have to let Eleanor know that we told her the 
brooch was five thousand dollars to give her the 
pleasure of thinking she was making such a pres- 
ent, but naturally we intended from the first to make 
up the other twenty thousand ourselves ! 

Howitt. ( Coming down l.c. Delighted) Of 
course. That's it ! 

Maud. You ought to be devilish thankful we 
don't send for the police ! 

How itt. (Taking a step forward) Miss Price, 
if you think that's an exaggeration, I'll take pleas- 
ure in making it clear just where you stand. You 
impersonated another woman this afternoon in or- 
der to obtain jewelry of considerable value. That's 
a felony. In addition, you forged Mrs. Howitt's 
name. \Ye know that. Forgery. That's another 
felony, 

Nancy, (Gently ) I helped you to get Eleanor 
here, Mr. Howitt. I'd gladly commit a real felony 
to pay for that ! 

Howitt. We demand possession of that brooch. 
Do you refuse? 1 said. Do you refuse? 

Nancy. | Rising. Goes c.) You're getting 
yourselves all upset for nothing. 

("Howitt goes up l.c.) 

Maud. (Going to her) Upset! You'd better 
get a little upset, yourself. A maid took a necklace 
oi mine once : this one right here, that I'm ■:. . 
Would you like to know where she is now? 

(Nancy crosses l. to table. ) 

Howitt. (Coming don r) Mrs. Howitt 

didn't put that one bit too strong. Miss Price. That 
brooch belonged to my wife from the moment Strom- 
berg got the check ; and the minute we allow him 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 107 

to discover that it was taken from his agent by 
fraud and forgery, the case is out of our hands. 

( Nancy goes front of table and up l. to mantel.) 

Maud. And God help you when it gets as far as 
that ! 

Howitt. (Going up c. Beginning fiercely) If 
I could reach Stromberg on the telephone to-night, 
I'd 

Maud. (Crossing L. to table. Grozuing nearer 
loss of all control) Why, you little Jay, do you 
think you can come here and ride over me like this? 
I've been too long in the world for a little country 
scrub to take my own jewels right off my breast ! 
When Stromberg has finished getting them from 
you, you'll be through with interfering in people's 
family affairs, for quite some time ! (During this 
speech Howitt walks up and down r.c. Almost 
shrieking) You were sent on here by Stan's first 
wife to make trouble between him and his daugh- 
ter ! You'll see what you get ! 

fHowiTT goes back of piano to r. of it — then to 
front of couch. George appears in c.e. — 
frowning and disturbed. Athalie and Mrs. 
Kinney, with billiard cues in their hands, ap- 
pear at u.l.e., looking startled. No pause.) 

George. (At c.e., speaking quickly and gravely) 
I don't know what about the neighbors, Maud, but 
/ could hear you at the other end of the terrace. 

Mrs. K. (Going down r.c. to l. of couch. 
Quickly and loudly) Of course we could hear you 
outside, but 

Athalie. (Leaning over rail l.) But one does 
love to see! 

Maud. (Going on violently) What do / care 



ioS THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

who hoars me? Eleanor's had to spend all her life 
out there with those people — having a rotten, dull 
time of it, too, you bet — and the minute she got with 
her lather, where she eould enjoy — (ELEANOR, in a 
peignoir, her u. forearm across Iter forehead, in 
pain, enters R.E. /<> below eoueJi) — herself, they sent 
this woman on to get her back, for fear she'll Spend 
a little of her money on somebody else but them! 
( Crosses to rx, ) 

llowriT. (Looking r.e, and exclaiming. Goes 
to tier) Eleanor! 

Eleanor. (As she enters) What w all the noise 
about ? 

Nancy. (Crossing R, to c.) Nothing for you 

to worry about to-night. 

Maud. (Coming down between them. With a 
loud laugh ) No! Not to-night! 

Eleanor. Oh, Nancy! (George comes do\ 

steps — goes back of table to l,J Couldn't you let 

things be peaceful just to-night, when you knew I 

had this headache? I can't stand it! (Falls back 

lowi rr's arms.) 

NANCY, ( Taking a step toward her) Then just 
let me take you back to bed, dearie. 

How itt. [Intervening, and placing his arm 

around Eleanor, who turns to him) If von please. 

This is my daughter, and if she needs any attention, 

my wife is going to give it to her! ( Beckoning to 

Maud with his head ) Maud ! 

( Maud takes Eleanor in her arms. ) 
Eleanor, Nancy! Nancy! What have you 

been doing? 

Maud, What's she been doing every minute since 
she got here Trying to set you against your 

father! 

Eleanor, Oh, Nancy! If you'd only have a 
little tactl 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 109 

Howitt. (Bitterly) Tact ! 

Nancy. (Crosses to R.C.J You said you could 
give her a "larger and brighter life" 

Howitt. (Hotly) Isn't it here? Hasn't she 
got it? 

Nancy. It's here, somewhere, but she hasn't 
got it! You said she would meet "people of dis- 
tinction !" These? You might as well have brought 
her into a nest of rattlesnakes! (Crosses to chair 

L.CJ 

Howitt. (Crossing to Nancy,) Miss Price! I 
warn you to spare my daughter this outburst to- 
night. You'll talk to-morrow morning. 

Nancy. I'd rather talk now while I have a 
chance ! 

('Howitt crosses up r.c. to r. of steps.) 

Eleanor. (Protesting sharply) No! 

Maud. No. I don't think Eleanor will care to 
hear anything from you, after your calling all her 
dearest friends "a nest of rattlesnakes !" (Starts to 
take Eleanor to r.eJ 

Nancy. (Taking c. With fire) I shouldn't 
have called you that. A rattlesnake doesn't lie and 
he doesn't drink ; his family is one of the oldest in 
the world and you never heard of his mentioning it 
or even thinking about it! 

Maud. (Loudly derisive) There's one for you, 
George ! (Turns — with Eleanor r. of couch.) 

Nancy. (Taking them all in — works her way 
Up steps) And when I think I compared him with 
people who live for highballs and ragtime — and 
money that comes any way that's easy — people who 
judge humanity by whether humanity carries a 
leather suitcase or a wicker one 

(Mrs. Kinney drops dozun to l. of couch.) 



no THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

George. (Going up to Nancy) You're wrong ! 
You're wrong, I tell you! When you attempt to 
say (Broken.) 

Nancy. (On c. of top step) I am wrong! And 
I ask pardon — of the rattlesnake ! I tell you a rat- 
tlesnake is a good American and some pretty good 
Americans put him on a flag once, "Don't tread on 
me!" it said. A rattlesnake lets you know when 
he's going to fight, and he rights fair, but he strikes 
with every ounce of strength he's got in him ! Oh, 
you little people you, how I wish you were like him ! 
How I wish / were ! (She runs out c.e .) 

WARNING CURTAIN 



(After Nancy's exit. Nancy to finish strong, let 
applause come as hard as possible. Confused 
speeches together, angry and surprised voices.) 

Maud. (Front of couch with EleanorJ A very 
pleasant exhibition ! Pleasant behavior for a guest ! 
(Ad lib.) 

Mrs. K. (At r.cJ What — did — she — mean? 
Great treat for visitors ! "Come to see us and get 
called a rattlesnake." (Ad lib.) 

Athalie. (Leaning over railing lJ No mean- 
ing to what she said ! 

Howitt. (Coming down, c.) I suppose you 
might as well all understand, this whole trouble was 
over a brooch of Maud's. Now WHAT did that 
outburst of hers have to do with a brooch? — What 
did IT have to do with ANYthing? What on earth 
was she talking about? 

George. (Back of table l. Loudly, with im- 
mense conviction) I can tell you ! 

Howitt. (Amazed) Youf 

George. She was right, too ! Right to the min- 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN nr 

ute! She was doing it again! She WAS! I 
know what she was talking about ! 

Howitt. (Fiercely) You do? Then for God's 

sake tell us what was it? 

CURTAIN 

George. (Inspired) The United States and the 
Kaiser ! 

Playing time — 24 minutes. 

FAST CURTAIN 



ACT IV 

Scene: The same as Act III. Morning, At the 
fable l.c. seated r, of it. stu . is Mrs. Kin- 

ney, in a becoming g dress, 

eakfast with Cyril, who is l, of table. He 
wears es':, or other type summer 

ning suit. A newspa ber i at Mrs 

Kinney's right She is reading it. Cyril 

lass and sighs with painful 
sai on. Mrs. Kinney reads 

scene. 

Mrs. Kinney You'd better eat something. I 
think! (Alluding to glass,) 

Cyril. all pinch of toast) Oh. I 

do, ' do at '..' . drinks ogam. I 

Mrs. K. CoU :'.';. Fve told you. you'll go the 
way your father did. That ends my responsibility, 
.'. ' Facing front, ) 

Cyrii . It's wonderful, mumsey, how well I don't 

SI tful pause I o\ to have 

taken coffee after er, last night: it always 

Mrs. K. Don*t bother me with your trouble?, 
we had some real excitement last night. That Miss 
Price, 

Cyril, What did she do? 

Mrs. K. She raised Cain. 

Cyril. What like: 

Mrs, K. (Coolly Like the devil! Insulted us 
all — went quite out of her head — called us ''rattle- 
snakes" 

Cyril. Well, well! 

112 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 113 

Mrs. K. Oh, she quite laid your performance in 
in the shade — even your getting yourself knocked 
down. 

Cyril. (Nervously, sloivly) My "getting my- 
self" — what? (Touches his chin anil moves it rust- 
ily) Oh, that's what did it! 

Mrs. K. Really, doesn't it make you rather tired, 
knowing what an ass you made of yourself, last 
night ? 

Cyril. But I don't know ! 

Mrs. K. Sometimes you take me back quite to 
the days of my honeymoon, you're so like your 
father ! (Resumes reading. ) 

Cyril. (Plaintively) Why, mumsey, you're sen- 
timental ! 

Mrs. K. Yes, your father never could remem- 
ber anything — about the preceding evening. 

Cyril. That's the one, single blessing of a morn- 
ing after a preceding evening. But it doesn't last. 
Your best friends always tell you. So go ahead, 
mumsey. Who — who'd you say hit me? 

Mrs. K. Archie Gore. 

Cyril. (Timidly) What — what for? 

Mrs. K. (Coldly) Because you were tickling 
Maud Howitt. 

Cyril. (Smiling faintly) That all? Why, / 
must be a rogue! What did Gore hit me for? 

Mrs. K. (Sharply — spacing words) I said, be- 
cause you were — tickling — Maud — Hozvitt. 

Cyril. I mean, it doesn't seem very subtle of 
him. Howitt was there to hit me. 

Mrs. K. Maud's very imprudent. 

Cyril. I don't think Maud and Stan will be very 
rough with Gore over it, though. 

Mrs. K. No, not so long as he keeps poor Stan 
in his firm. 

Cyril. Guess I'll be humane and let old Gore off, 
myself. I like his boat. 



ii4 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

/'Athalie enters l.u.e., wearing summer morning 
dress; rather "extreme" and fairly short. She 
zvears a hat; has parasol.) 

Athalie. (As she enters l.u.e.J Good morn- 
ing. (They respond. Leaning over rail L.J How 
are all my fellow rattlesnakes, this morning-? Did 
you ever know anything quite like that girl's goin' 
off her head the way she did ? Has anybody seen 
George? (Both shake hands; Cyril is sorry 
after shaking his) What's the idea, breakfast in 
here ? 

Mrs. K. After last night you don't suppose we 
want to sit at table with the Price woman, do you, 
old party ? 

Athalie. (Joining them) Had mine in my 
room. Not much sleep, my room bein' next to young 
Eleanor's ! Maud spent most of the night with her, 
and Stan was there bright and early, thank you, 
headin' off the Price girl from goin' in. She hasn't 
got to see Eleanor, yet. What's your news? (Sits 
on rail L.J 

Mrs. K. (Picking up paper, bored) Nothing. 
Only this tiresome war. I don't see why they keep 
it up so long. I should think they'd have been bored 
to death with it ages ago ! 

Athalie. My dear thing! I don't mean that. 
I mean what's Stan told you about the Price per- 
son's turning out to be an amateur Raffles. (Slyly) 
Stan tells you everything, doesn't he, Janie? 

Mrs. K. (Coldly. Indignant — puts paper on 
table) I don't quite care for that, you know. 

Athalie. (Amused glance at Cyril J Tactless 
of me — with the children present! Apologies. 
Now tell us. What's really up? 

Mrs. K. Eleanor's put everything absolutely in 
her father's hands. I think there's to be some sort 
of sfeneral riot. 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 115 

Cyril. (Tired) This Miss Price must have been 
quite the rowdy ! 

Athalie. Curious type — the provincial adven- 
turess. 

^George enters slowly r.e. with a note-book and thin 
volume of an encyclopedia, which he is dream- 
ily reading. Mrs. Kinney notes him first.) 

Mrs. K. (Negligently) There's George. 

Athalie. (Rising quickly. Going to c. of plat- 
form) George ! George, have you heard (As- 
tonished. Stops) What on earth are you doing 
with a book? 

George. (Quietly, as he comes to couch r.c J 
Reading, Athalie. 

Cyril. What ! 

Athalie. (Profoundly puzzled) Very strange ! 
(To others) What do you make of it? 

Mrs. K. Recent events have deeply affected his 
poor mind. (Indulgently) What is the book, 
George ? 

George. (Sits couch r.c. Absently) Reference 
book. I've been making some notes. 

Athalie. (Coming down r.c. above him) For 
heaven's sake ! What about ? 

George. (Mildly and studying his scribbled 
sheet) It's very surprising but it seems to be so! 
(Reads) "Although New York and adjacent set- 
tlements take a pardonable pride in their vast size 
and rightful importance, it is difficult to deny that 
at the close of the Civil W T ar, the two ranking-gen- 
erals in command of all the forces of the United 
States both came from a state at some distance from 
this great center. In fact, it is also difficult to deny 
that while only nine citizens have been elected to 
che presidency of the United States, since the Civil 
War, actually six of these nine presidents were born 



n6 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

in the same state which supplied the two generals 
just mentioned. Note. There must be so 
reason For this. Ohio also produces more pig iron 
than New York and all the New England States 
combined." (Thi out, he is st and se- 

s. \ 

MRS. K. What special brand of tomfoolery is all 
that? 

Cyril, (Hushes her) Let'mgoon, It's botany, 
adjusts chah . : sry interested, 

George, (Reads) "Again, : .-\ the production of 
agricultural implements, women's knitted, goods and 
iron castings, Ohio stands M 

Athalie, George, I jus: hate information! 
( Moi cs and a\ ■.■'.-.'■ ■•:. S&s on l. 

of settee Are j . u uite sober? 

George, Graz eb v ;>. Quite, 

AniALiE. (Puts her arm a\ I George 

you mustn't he queer. [t*s not your line, poor dear. 
What is it? , Rises — takes his hand >s to 

pull him up ' Come somewhere and tell me. 

Cyril, (Gently oachful, grinning over his 

glass) Why, Athalie, I thought the boy was sup- 
posed to he here eanor's account! 

Gi Rises, Detach isclf from Atha- 

lie dreamily) Has anybody seen Miss Price? 

Mas. K, With a sour s>ni!e) No: precisely! 
oken.) 

Amu it. .' •:.- ed \c S You've C 

in provincial adventuresses, are you, Geo] [*ve 

never Pound anything unwholesome about you 
fore. Sits a 

i-:v ;.• •. fgnot ' : . '-■ crosses to c, 
Id like to find Miss Price, 

Mrs. K. V From " 

Athalie, Faking .-. p he s >eecl a 
Yes, From what Stan tells us. you're going to see 
little Miss Price under unpleasant circumstances! 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN u; 

Mrs, K, (Rises— moving to terrace) As a sort 
of reparation to us, 

Cyril. (Rises — goes to C.E.J Lot's go gel a lit- 
tle open air! 

(Exit Mrs, Kinney and Cyrii. fo terrace*) 

Atiialie. (Following. Coolly, no pause, cover' 
ing their exit) Quite, oh, Georgiel St.-m means to 
make a holy show of the poor thing! Possibly you'll 
find the exhibition trying? 

(Enter Pruitt, troubled - speaks quickly as he en" 

tersj 

Pruitt. I beg pardon, but there's a person that 
insists on seeing Miss- -Eleanor. He can't see her 
now — (Turning to k., protesting) — oh, no, kindly 
wait in the hall — not in here I 

('Sam Wilson enters briskly u.. very determined. 
He wears a new Hart, Shaffner and Marx 
ready-made $13 suit that doesn't quite fit; a 
preposterous green hat of Tyrolean modal and 

American make. GEORGE and ATHALIE, she up 

terrace, regard him diimhfouudedly.) 

S.AM. (As lie enters) You go tell her just what 
I told you! Say it's somebody from Centreville — 'I 
want to surprise her. 

Atiialie. More from Ohio? Why don't you 
kiss him, George? (She is up at terrace about to 
exit.) 

Sam. (Wheeling suspiciously, crosses to c. ) 
What? 

Athalie. (To Sam) This gentleman adores the 
middle West. Tell him all about it. Be woolly. 
He'll love you ! (Exits to terrace.) 



n8 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Pruitt. Indeed, you'd best wait in the hall! 

Sam. (Crisply) You wouldn't be tellin' me 
where to wait — if you knew who I was. 

George. (Sudden idea) By Jove! I know! 
I've got you perfectly ! 

Sam. What? 

George. I mean to say, I know who you are, 
you see. Pruitt, you needn't wait and don't — ah — 
mention him to awybody. 

('Pruitt exits, worried but acquiescent.) 

Sam. (On his guard) I know who you are, 
too. You were with her father when he came for 
her. (He reaches out — takes George's hand and 
shakes it.) 

George. Yes, and you were the neighbor boy 
that made such a noise . . . shouting — "El-a-an- 
aw." 

Sam. (Puzzled) "El-e-an-aw ?" Oh, you mean 
Ellunner ! 

George. (After a thought) Ah— "Ellunerr" ? 
It's just possible we mean the same thing — that is, 
Miss Howitt? 

Sam. (Emphatically) That's certainly who I'm 
talkin' about. 

George. (With no expression upon his face, but 
with voice emphatic and serious) I'm very glad to 
see you, indeed ! (Offers his hand.) 

Sam. (Shaking hands unsmilingly) I stood not 
seein' her just about as long as I could and when 
Miss Price left I couldn't stand it, so I sold a man- 
dolin and my bicycle and my last winter suit and 
mother's lawn-mower and borrowed twenty-eight 
dollars from the bank on my note and hit an ex- 
cursion to New York City and trolleyed from there. 
When I make up my mind to do a thing I do it, 
and it's time I saw Eleanor, and time she saw met 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 119 

George. (Gravely) You — ah — feel that her 
sentiments (Broken.) 

Sam. Why, we're just as good as engaged. 

George. "Just as good ?" 

Sam. "We're going to be. It's the same thing — 
practically. (Quietly — facing front) I need her 
and she'll have a wonderful life. 

George. Ah — you think she feels — ah? 

(Bus. He takes a letter — not in an envelope — from 

his pocket.) 

Sam. Look here. Here's the last letter her 
mother got from her just before I started. She 
gave it to me, and she thought it was a good thing 

I was coming. Read the last line It's about 

me. (Giving letter to George.J 

George. (Reading) Ah — "Lovely new life all 
just what I dreamed." 

Sam. No, no— the last line. 

George. ''Though sometimes — sometimes — just 
for a minute — I feel sort of queer — like being home- 
sick. How is Sam Wilson?" 

Sam. That tells it, don't it? 

George. (Puzzled, re-reading) "How is Sam 
Wilson ?" Sam Wilson. Is that one of their — ah 
— menage ? 

Sam. Who? It's me! (Taking letter from him) 
Look at it: "homesick — how is Sam Wilson?" I'm 
Sam W r ilson. Wait till she sees me, and you'll 
understand ! 

George. (Staring at him) I've encountered a 
great many types, but, I mean to say. you do strike 
me as a most remarkable young man ! 

Sam. You've got to be remarkable these days if 
you're going to get where I'm going! 

George. More and more the central West re- 
veals itself as a marvelous place ! It's queer, cer- 



120 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

tainly, but it really seems one's duty to try to 
comprehend it ! 

Sam. (Stepping back, looking him over) The 
way I size you up you must belong here — East. 

George. I hope you'll forgive me if I'm still 
able to say "Thank God I do !" 

Sam. Yes; everybody ought to stick up for his 
own place — no matter what he really thinks of it. 

(Sits on couch r.c. Pulling up each troaser leg in 
an awkward manner. Crosses his legs. Seri- 
ously. Sam never has a gleam of humor.) 

George. (Blank expression) And, of course, 
one ought to be polite about someone else's part of 
the country — no matter what he really thinks of 
it! 

Sam. (Briskly) That's the way / do. (Slaps 
sole of right shoe.) 

WARNING VOICES 

George. (Mildly) I'm trying to. 

Sam. It makes friends for you. 

George. I was hoping it might make one. 

Sam. (Leaning back — arms outstretched) I 
found that out years and years ago ! 

George. (Polite tone, almost genial) I believe 
/ might have discovered things like that, at the — ah 
— evidently early age at which you did — if I'd had 
perhaps just a little more — ah — self-assurance. 

Sam. (Easily) Yes, everybody ought to have 
some. A little, anyway. 

George. Mr. Wilson, let me speak frankly 

Sam. I'm ahvays frank. It pays. The more 
you speak out the more you get to be believed — 
especially about yourself. 

George. (Steps back) Frankly then, there's 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 121, 

something about you that convinces me you will 
get what you want. 

Sam. Why, certainly! 

VOICES OFF r.u, 

George. Just now you want to see Eleanor, ah, 
I mean Miss Howitt. 

Sam. (Rises and goes to him at c.) Well — ; 
what do you suppose I gave my note at the bank, 
sold my mandolin, mother's lawn-mower and 
my (Broken.) 

George. You happen to arrive rather in a time 
of difficulty, you see. (Voices again) Would you 
mind (Pauses, glancing toward up R.J 

Sam. All I want's to surprise Eleanor. Then 
you'll see. 

George. There's a rather dreadful phrase — 
"phychological moment" — what? Do you mind 
waiting for it? 

Sam. Where'll I wait? 

George. (Pointing to door r.) Just yonder. I 
think you'll find a trunk there — to sit on, I mean 
to say. 

Sam. (Going slowly, distrustfully. Turns) You 
aren't trying to be funny with me? 

George. Ah — this isn't a funny morning. 

(Voices on terrace.) 

Sam. Well 

George. (Hastily) And would you mind — all 

— hurrying? 

(Exit Sam r.e. George turns his back to front, hid 
hands behind him. Goes to R.c. Howitt en- 
ters l.u.e v frowningly alert and grave; gives 
George a short look, then comes down steps — \ 
goes l. to above mantel — pushes wall button — •. 
then goes up to l. of steps.) 



122 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Howitt. (Speaking to off, up c. quietly) Will 
you come in, please? 

(Mrs. Kinney, Cyril and Athalie enter from ter- 
race. Howitt waits till they have come down. 
Pruitt enters down r.) 

Pruitt. (As he goes l. to table) I told Miss 
Price. She is here, sir. (Gets tray of dishes and 
exits up r.) 

(Exits. Nancy enters down r.) 

Nancy. (Gravely to all) Good morning. (She 
'comes down slowly.) 

George. (Gravely) Good morning, f George 
'stands looking at her.) 

r fMRS. Kinney comes down to couch r. Cyril l. 
of c.e. Athalie r. of c.e. on landing.) 

Howitt. (To others) It's very disagreeable, 
but this young woman — (A few steps toward 
Nancy J — included you in her insult to us last night. 
I thought you should be here. 

Nancy. (Going to him to up c.) Mr. Howitt — 
(Voice brave but a little tremulous) — you are going 
to let me see Eleanor ? 

Howitt. (Significantly) Yes, we are! (Turn- 
ing to l.u.eJ All right, Maud. 

(Maud comes in l.u.e. Eleanor, very pale, fol- 
lows her, coming down.) 

Nancy. (Stepping toward her) Dear- 



(Maud steps between) Mr. Howitt, I want to speak 
to her alone. 

Howitt. (Shortly but quickly) Not at all. 
I 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 123 

Mrs. K. (Sharply) I suppose we're to expect 

some sort of apology from (Broken.) 

Howitt. No. 

f Cyril sits on arm of chair l. of c.e. George at 
lower r. end of piano.) 

Maud. (Quickly) Good gracious ! She doesn't 
understand apologies! I think you'll be satisfied, 
though, Janie ! 

(Crosses back of Howitt — goes to chair l. of table. 
Athalie goes down r.c. to back of piano. Mrs. 
Kinney sits — couch r.c J 

Howitt. (With arm around her) I want to 
make one thing clear at once. Maud's explained to 
all of you, I believe; and Eleanor perfectly under- 
stands that we deceived her about the price of 
Maud's brooch because we wanted to give her a lit- 
tle added happiness in thinking she gave all of it. 
That is understood, isn't it, dear? 

Eleanor. (In low voice) Yes. (Drops down to 
chair r. of table.) 

Howitt. Very well. Now, Eleanor. 

("Maud sits in chair l. of table.) 

Eleanor. (Can't face Nancy — turns front) 
Nancy, we've had your trunk packed (Broken.) 

Nancy. (Steps to her) You've listened to them 
pretty long, Eleanor. Don't you want to hear what 
I have to say? 

Eleanor. (Drops down front of chair) It's — 
it's unnecessary. (Unhappily, jerkily, and like a les- 
son committed to memory) Nancy, we've had your 
trunk packed and your luggage has been brought 
down and put in the hall 



124 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Howitt. (Indicating r.e.) Just yonder !^ 

Eleanor. Mamma made a great mistake in sug- 
gesting your coming here, and, of course (She 

turns unhappily to Howitt. Howitt nods to con- 
tinue. Going on) — of course, that makes me doubt 
her judgment in the future. We feel, though, the 
whole thing has been a lesson and the best thing to 
do — after you've given Maud her property — is to 
have as little scandal as we can. ^Nancy moves 
slowly down to her) Nancy, the way you've acted 
here has made it plain that Maud is right and 
you — (Gulping) — were jealous because Uncle Ben 
left it all to me, and so you came to see what you 

could get for yourself ^Nancy takes brooch 

out of her pocket. She lifts the brooch in its case 
in her l. hand, for Eleanor to take. No pause for 
this. Nancy gives the brooch without looking at 
it; looking front. Going on as she takes the brooch, 
not glancing at it) And you thought you could 

keep this — this (Sinks into chair R. of table. 

Abruptly turns to her father, wailing) Papa! I 
can't ! When I look at Nancy, all those things don't 
sound true any more ! 

Howitt. (Coming down to back of her chair. 
Hotly to all. Trying to hypnotize her) Do you see 
what a poor little tender heart she's been imposing 
on? Now, dear. 

Eleanor. Nancy, the servants will see that your 
luggage is taken to the station. 

Maud. And you might suggest to Miss Price 
that there's a pleasant waiting-room at the station. 

(Lightly. Movement half of protest front George.J 

Eleanor. Papa ! Can't I stop now? 

Athalie. (Loudly, as Eleanor clings to How- 
itt, pleading) Look at George Reynolds staring at 
Miss Price! I believe she's making him actually 
sick ! 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 125 

George. You're absolutely right! She's been 
making- me sick ever since she got here ! (Maud 
and Athalie and Mrs. Kinney laugh approvingly) 
I mean to say of me — and the whole beastly outfit 
of us — I mean to say — and so forth — and that's 
what I mean to say ! 

Eleanor. (Quickly) Papa! Can't I? 

Howitt. (With indignation, ignoring GeorgeJ 
No, we might like to be lenient, but this is a case of 

right and wrong. Everyone here sees that 

(Broken.) 

George. (Crossing to c. Breaking out after a 
long period of self-repression) Oh, I say! Isn't it 
about time you see what everyone here does see? 

(General exclamation. Athalie drops down to R. 

of piano.) 

Howitt. (Hotly, turning toward him) What's 
that? 

George. (Hotly) That Miss Price knew this 
little girl had no business making such an extrava- 
gant present to her stepmother and didn't know the 
cost of it at that ! Eleanor hasn't been able to talk 
of it with her till now — and she's got the thing in 
her hand, hasn't she? 

('Nancy comes down a step.) 

Howitt and Maud. (Speaking almost together, 
fiercely) What of that? What are you 

George. Eleanor's the person that paid for it 
and she's the one Miss Price took it for. Well, she's 
got it, hasn't she? (Turning sharply to Nancyj 
Miss Price, you'll be wrong if you think — well, 
they're not all — like us! 

Nancy. (Very quickly) I see that — now! 

Howitt. Are you through interrupting? 



126 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

George. It's perfectly plain Miss Price took a 
chance of this kind of thing and that she did it to 
watch over her cousin. You want to go on making 
Eleanor insult her 

(General exclamation.) 

Athalie. What's the matter with " 
George ? 

Maud. He's crazy! >Tog ether. 

Howitt. (Going up l.c.) Oh, piffle ! 

Mrs. K. What a rotten row ! 

George. (Crossing to Howitt. Nancy goes 
r.c. Going on) You put your daughter through a 
few more such stunts and you'll lose her, you fool, 
and serve you jolly well right ! 

Howitt. (Violently to George J Have you fin- 
ished ? 

George. I'll leave the house when I have! But 
I'll say one thing first ! (Coming down a few steps 
to EleanorJ Either Eleanor isn't worth Miss 
Price's making the sacrifice of this humiliation for 
— or if she is worth it she won't stand -for it. 

Eleanor. (Miserable, quickly) I ought to have 
stayed in Centreville. I don't know what to do! 
(Head on back of chair — she breaks down.) 

( Under cover of this George has gone to door r.e. ; 
he speaks instantly upon Eleanor's speech and 
all the action is swift. Nancy goes to Eleanor 
to comfort her, but is prevented by Howitt, 
who comes between — she goes up c. a bit.) 

George. (Loudly) Come in, Mr. Wilson! 

(Sam enters quickly to c, grinning. Nancy comes 
down c. — takes his hand. Instantly at sight of 
him Eleanor utters his name with a loud out- 
cry.) 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 127 

Eleanor. (Going to him) Oh, Sammy ! 
(^George crosses proudly to R.c. ) Sammy ! 
Sam, Eleanor ! 

(She seizes his hand, not pausing an instant, and 
runs, taking him along with her, to r.e. — they 
exit. General exclamation. Cyril comes down 
steps to back of piano, looking r.) 

Howitt. What are you doing? 

Maud. (Rising) Who on earth is > Together. 
this idiot boy? J 

Howitt. (Looks at Maud in dismay. Follow- 
ing her, anxiously) Eleanor, where are you going? 

Eleanor. (Off-stage, as she exits with Sam J 
No, no, no, Papa ! 

/Howitt following her off.) 

Maud. (Crossing to George at c. To George. 
As Howitt exits) Who was that boy? 

George. All I know is he said his name was 
Wilson and he was going to be engaged to Eleanor. 

Maud. What ! 

^Maud exits hastily r.) 

Athalie. At least she's through with Miss 
Price! 

Cyril. Yes ! (Going r. — follows them off.) 
Mrs. K. Let's see what's up ! 



(Exeunt the three r., quickly. George remaining 
— looks after them.) 



c. 



Nancy. (Sits R. of table — head bowed. To 
George J Thank you. 



128 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

George. (To Nancy,) You said — you knew we 
weren't all, like this. 

Nancy. Yes. 

George. Maybe not even — me? 

Nancy. No. Not "even" — you, 

George. Where are you going? 

Nancy. (Gently) Why — 'back to Ohio. 

George. Without 

Nancy. No. Not without her. 

George. (Doubtfully) They're at her pretty 
hard, I'll venture. I'm afraid they won't let her 
take even Mr. Wilson very seriously. 

Nancy. He's going to be a great man, and I be- 
lieve in him now, as much as he does in himself. 

George. You seem — to have accomplished a mor- 
tal disturbance, Miss Price. 

Nancy. I'm sorry. 

George. Ah — just for a minute you seem to have 
forgotten how conceited I am. 

Nancy. Why, I did forget that, just for a min- 
ute! 

George. / meant in me. A — a mortal disturb- 
ance in me. I've been — ah — ignorant. (Alluding 
to his book) But I've been studying. You see, I 
always got Ohio and Iowa and even Idaho all mixed 
up. But now I see they're not the same thing at 
all! For instance, when it comes to the manufac- 
ture of trunks and bags and suitcases, Iowa and 
Idaho are simply nowhere. And, for instance — that 
is to say: Well, I find it very pleasant to think 
about Ohio. 

Nancy. (Gently, gravely) And so you're try- 
ing to keep me thinking of something pleasant while 
I'm waiting. 

George. (With a little apologetic laugh) Uh — 
no. I'm only trying to keep you waiting. I know 
I've convinced you I'm utterly an ass — but I — I'm 
not! 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 129 

Nancy. (Absently) No, no. 
George. Well! That's quite a startling admis- 
sion from you! 

(Truitt enters R. with Nancy's hat and coat. Goes 

to R.C.J 

Pruitt. I beg pardon, madam, but the luggage 
wagon is here, and we've loaded your box upon it — 
your trunk, I mean to say. 

George. (Sharply ) Get my bags down from 
my room, will you, and put them on the wagon? 

Pruitt. Yes, sir. (Crosses to Nancy — gives 
her her hat and coat) Beg pardon. But Miss 
Howitt has ordered the wagon to wait for her own 
trunk. 

George. By Jove, has she? 

Pruitt. Yes, sir. Miss Howitt and two maids 
are packing Miss Howitt's trunks and that young 
man is standing around talking a great deal and 
there's quite a commotion. I fear (Broken.) 

("Eleanor runs in r.e. Sam stands grinning at r.e. 
Pruitt exits r.e. J 

Eleanor. (Breathless) Nancy, if you just 
hadn't stood there — if you'd said anything back, — 
(Crosses front of George to l.c.) — I've told them — 
they can have the brooch — and the house for the 
rest of the time — and everything I've brought here — 
they can have the whole thing — it's cheap at the 
price! (She runs to Nancy — falls on her knees at 
her feet — putting arms around her — pause — Sam 
takes a few steps to R.e. — she continues) Wait for 
me ! We'll go as quick as we can ! I want to be 
gone — to mother (Broken. AH fast here.) 

WARNING CURTAIN 



130 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Nancy. (Seriously) With Sam and me? 

("Eleanor holds out her hand to Sam — he swells out 
his chest — crosses to her — takes it.) 

Eleanor. Sam's got half of a round-trip ticket 
left to go back on ; he's so independent ! (Looks up 
at Sam — gives his hand a strong shake.) 

^Nancy holds out her hand to him — he takes it — • 
shakes it once — pulls Eleanor to her feet. 
Puts her r. arm in his left. Beckons twice with 
his head for her to come. They start to go R. 
— stop c. — seeing George — Sam slaps him twice 
on the chest — puts out his hand — George takes 
it. Sam gives it a strong single shake. Swells 
out his chest and struts with Eleanor to r.e. 
and exits — all this done with sincerity.) 

Nancy. (Quietly, thoughtfully) Yet I don't 
think he's good enough for her. 

George. You didn't think / was good enough 
for her either, did you? 

Nancy. No — I didn't. . 

George. (Helping her on with her coat) Well, 
everything you've done here shows that you think 
more of Eleanor than you do of yourself. God 
knows why ! Perhaps you'd think what wasn't good 
enough for Eleanor might be (Broken.) 

Pruitt. (Entering with a suitcase) Beg par- 
don, but did you wish to take this with you in the 

(Broken.) 

George. (Sharply) Here, give that to me I 
(Taking suitcase.) 

CPruitt exits R.) 

Nancy. Put it down. It's wicker. 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 131 

George. Wicker? It's my whole education. 
(Gently) Couldn't I carry it for you? 

Nancy, To the car? 

George. No, to New York where you'll take 
your train for Ohio, and I'll take mine for — the 
training camp at Pittsburgh. (Quietly.) 

Nancy. You're going to Pittsburgh? (Be- 
wildered.) 

George. Due to-morrow. Maybe I won't turn 
out such a bad old American rattlesnake after all. 
If I strike 

Nancy. (In a hushed voice, but with fire) 

Strike hard ! 

George. (Noting her face, which is startled but 
alight) Will you — love me — if I do? 

Nancy. (Breathless) Everybody will! 

("George puts suitcase under his left arm — extends 
his right hand to her. Lifting her face bravely. 
Their hands meet, but they do not embrace or 
kiss.) 

CURTAIN 
Playing time — 23 minutes. 



ACT I 

PROPERTY PLOT 

Bookcase tilled with book backings. Below 
door R, 

Bookcase filled with book backings. Above 

door k. 

Bookcase filled with book backings. Up c. be- 
tween windows. 

Mantel— on fiat t.. — below door. 
ire-irons, fire-screen (tapestry), fire-dogs — grate 
er— in :" v i . 

to and stool — off stage r. 
Square piano — R.c. 

no bench — (tapestry top) — r. of piano. 
Side chair (upholstered mahogany) back of piano. 
Side chair (upholstered mahogany) below book- 
case down r. 
Side chair (upholstered mahogany) front of * 

dow i .0. — (back to front V 

Arm chair (upholstered mahogany) below mantel 
and table — t .. 
Couch — front of piano r.c. 

FoOtStOO] -front oi COUch R.C. 

Couch — front of mantel \. (facing it). 

Tall stand — R. of window r.c. 

Checker board top table front of window r.c. 

Waste basket — k. of window I >G 

Lacquer table — l. of window i .o. 




I £ 
Si uj 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN [33 

Round table— ^ below mantel (in |og) l. black 
and gold scarf over It 

Glass-cased was Bowers on round table l. 

Gate-leg table — l. end of piano (lefl wing 
raised). 

Black side chair (green seat)- below gate-leg 
table R.c. 

Large carpet covering entire stage (tan). 

Window curtains. 

Draperies owr windows (green velvet). 

Window seal cushions. 

Cushion on each window seat. 
Cushion on chair back of piano. 

Grass ma! and bed of dowers OUtsidc door up L, 

— (roses in hedge). 
Flower beds — outside — on a level with windows. 

On Mantel 

Marble clock c. 
Sword hanging above. 

Large Framed picture above. 

Metal figures Of man and wo'man R, and L. of 
clock. 

White and gold china vases— each end. 
Yellow satin scarf. 

On Couch r.c. 

Round cushion R, 
Square pink cushion L, 

On Gate-Leg Table R.c. 

Flowered scarf, yellow border. 

Five books in book ends of Shakespeare's bust. 

Folded newspaper. 

Book of astronomy. 



i .VI NIK COUNTRY COUSIN 

On l. Flat— 'Below Mantel 

Picture of Washington. 

Family photograph in round mahogany frame. 

On Bookcase Down a. 

Bus! of Lincoln c. 
Flowered vases -R. and L. 

Picture of Grant hanging above. 
On Bookcase up u. 

Bust o\' Panic C. 
Green vase L. 
White vase u. 
Picture above. 

On Lacquer Table up l.c. 
Blue fringed scarf. 

Covered work basket. 
Throe red book's. 

Glass candalabra. 

Round picture on wall above. 
Paper catcher hanging below it. 

'On Piano u.c. 

Music — large chest on L. end. 

On Bookcase up c 

Gold bird — c\ 

Glass candlesticks a, and l. 

Picture of Gen. Sherman hanging above. 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 135 

On Tall Stand up r. 
I lig china lamp and globe ( top). 

Small white vase (below). 

Picture of lady, in small gold frame hanging on 
wall above. 

Side Props 

Piano — off r. 

( [lass flower bowl o(T r. 

Astronomy- -table k.c. 

Newspaper table r.c. 

Song "Absent" on piano off R. 

In Bookcase up c. 

( uo!v book. 

"Hamlet." 

Eleanor's book. 

For Nance Price. — pair of folding scissors. Two 

open markel baskets.— one containing wrapped pack- 
ages ib'' other three boxes of strawberries— (one 

real) daisies and s wed peas (real). 

LIGHTING 

Foots — while — full up. Amber— 1/3 up. 1st — 

while full up. Amber ]/• up. 

Borders .|ih and 5th white and blue — full up. 
Brackets r. and 1.. of mantel (not lighted). 

Table lamp up k. ( not lighted). 

ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT 

8 — t 000- watt lamps. 
t — Bunch light. 
2 — Brackets. 
1 — Table lamp. 



136 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

ACT II 
PROPERTY PLOT 

One large grass mat. — Four small grass mats. 

Three beds of flowers. 

One mound of sunflowers. 

One mound of hydrangeas. 

One bunch of pink roses — (in hedge up R.). 

Two urns of hydrangeas. 

Red and pink ramblers for arbors — R. and l. 

Stone bench up R. 

Wicker settee, with two cushions. 

Two wicker armchairs. 

One wicker table (large). 

Two wicker tables (small). 

Two reed chairs (small, round). 

One green grass side chair. 

One red grass side chair. 

Two side chairs. 

One mahogany armchair 

One mahogany square table 

One 8xio rug > Interior. 

One baby grand piano and stool 

One screen 



1 



SIDE PROPS 

Victrola — (ofT stage up l.). 

Two records — "Dengozo" and "Pack up Your 
Troubles in Your Old Kit Bag." 

Three blankets to muffle victrola. 

Train clothes in entrance l.u. 

Cigarettes in box on table l.c. 

Matches and stand on table l.c. 

Four "sporty" magazines on table l.c. 

Card case and cards (printed) — for "George 
Tewksberry Reynolds III." 




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THE COUNTRY COUSIN 137 

"Vanity Fair" (on chair R. on terrace). 

Wrist watch (for Maud). 

Sheet music — song "Absent" (on piano). 

Wicker suitcase — off l.u.e. 

Newspaper — off l.u.e. 

Bar wagon — off l.u.e., containing — 

Three bottles (Gordon gin, French and Italian 

Vermouth). 

Nine cocktail glasses. 

Napkin. 

rp , .— ^ I — ginger-ale. 
.1 wo shaKers ) T • r 1 

< i — piece of glass. 

One bowl (ice). 

One pair of tongs. 

Round tray — bottom of wagon. 

Ash tray (on table back of settee R.c.) 

Four rickey glasses 1 

Glass of straws [>on table R. on terrace. 

Tray J 

Brooch and case (wrapped) 1 r t em u » 

Receipt book I T ,, , 

■d • 4. • 1 ^Jeweller s 

Receipt in envelope [messenger, 

fountain pen J & 

LIGHT PLOT— AT RISE 

Foots — White — full up. Amber — 1/3 up. Blue 

— Va "P. 

Borders — White — full up. Blue — full up. Am- 
ber — 1/3 up. 

Spots — Frost — 1000-wt. lamps — J / 2 and ^ blue 
and frost. 

FINISH OF ACT 

Foots — white — 34 up. Amber — out. Blue — % 
up. 

On cue change slowly to white — 2/3 up. 



138 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Borders — Blue — full up. Amber — out. 

Spots change to steel blue and frost. 1000-wt. 
lamps — change to marks. — A little frost still uncov- 
ered. 

ELECT. DEPT. 

Nine 1000-watt lamps. 
Two spots on bridge. 
One baby spot in foots c. 

ACT III 

PROPERTY PLOT 

Wine-colored carpet (covering entire stage). 

8x10 rug in entrance. R. 

Large rug (from c.e. to steps c). 

Two small rugs — (front of windows R.c. and l.c). 

Two urns of hydrangeas — (on piers r. and l. 
of steps off-stage c.) 

Two square wicker baskets of ferns (on rail posts 
r. and l. of steps c). 

Two wicker flower-box stands of ferns (front of 
windows R.c. and l.c). 

Two round wicker baskets of ferns — (one on 
r. end of piano — one on table up L.). Artificial 
ferns. 

Gray, upholstered armchair (r. of c.e.). 

Gray, upholstered wing chair (l. of c.e.). 

Tapestry upholstered wing chair (down l. below 
mantel). 

Tapestry upholstered armchair (down r. below 

R.E.). 

Wine-colored carpet on stairs c. 
Chintz draperies over three French windows. 
Single curtain of chintz on pole (on doors up 
r. and l.). 



THE COUNTRY COUSIN 139 

Double curtain of chintz on pole (arch down r.). 
White satin curtains on French windows (drawn 

up)- 

Two prop, tables (off-stage R.E.). 

Baby grand piano and stool. 

Settee — mahogany — (front of "] 

piano) > I An of 

Two cushions on settee (x). Lsatne 

Mahogany library table (l.c.). I pattern. 

Mahogany armchair (l. of table). | * 

Mahogany side chair (r. of steps c). J 

Straight mahogany armchair (l. of steps c). 

Side table, mahogany (below rail R.C.). 

Small table, mahogany (up R.). 

Small table, mahogany (up l.). 

Two white china vases (on mantel l.). 

Large framed picture (over mantel L.). 

Club fender (in fireplace l.). 

Brass fire screen (in fireplace L.), 

Fire dogs (in fireplace L.). 

Fire irons (in fireplace l.). 

Bunch of roses (in fireplace l.). 

Blue china bowl (on table up R.C.). 

Matches and stand (on table up r.c.) 

Smoking set on tray consisting of match stand — 
cigarette jar (with cigarettes), ash receiver (on table 
L.c). 

* Match stand on tables l.c. and up r.c. impor- 
tant. 



SIDE PROPS. 

After dinner coffee service (china) on large tray 
with handles (off-stage R.) consisting of — china cof- 
fee pot — sugar bowl — two demitasse cups — saucers 
— spoons — two napkins. 



140 THE COUNTRY COUSIN 

Liqueur set on tray — consisting of two glass de- 
canters — four liqueur glasses on napkin (off-stage 

R.). 

Train cloths (entrances — r. — r.u.e. — l.u.e.). 
Two billiard cues (off-stage l.u.e.). 
Necklace (for Maud). 

LIGHTING 

Foots — Whites — % up. Amber — Full. 
Borders — ist — Amber and white — full up. 4- 
5th— Blue— full. 

ELECT. DEPT. 



Five ioocHwatt lamps. 
One bunch light. 
Two strip lights. 
One table lamp 
Four brackets 



^lighted. 



ACT IV 

PROPERTY PLOT 

Same as Act III. 

Strike Coffee service and liqueur set — 'billiard cues. 
Breakfast set on very large tray (on table l.c.) 
consisting of — 
Coffee pot. 
Sugar bowl. 
Creamer. 

Two coffee cups (coffee poured). 
Two saucers. 
Two spoons. - 
Two knives. 
Two forks. 



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THE COUNTRY COUSIN 141 

Two breakfast plates. 
Two egg cups. 
Two napkins (opened). 
Toast rack 
Four pieces of toast. 
One tall glass (rickey). 

These things set on cloth covering entire tray. 
Morning paper (on table l.c). 
Cigarettes in holder (on table l.c). 
Letter (written in ink — no envelope) for Sam 
Wilson. 

Encyclopedia volume (for George). 
Wicker suitcase (off r.e.). 

LIGHT PLOT 

Foots — white and amber — full up. 
Borders — 1st — white and amber — full up. 4th — 
white and amber — full up. 5th — white and amber — 
full up. 

3 — 1000-watt lamps — up R. — clear frost. 
3 — 1000-watt lamps — up l. — clear frost. 
Change Center lamp on terrace Act III — dead in 
from < Act IV. 
Act III Change blue strips — to white strips. 
4 brackets and table lamp — out. 
to Bunch in r. entrance — white and amber. 



DOROTHY'S NEIGHBORS. 

\K Brand new comedy in four acts, by Marie Doran, author of "The 
few Co-Ed," "Tempest and Sunshine," and many other successful plays, 
males, 7 females. The scenes are extremely easy to arrange ; two plain 
leriors and one exterior, a garden, or, if necessary, the two interiors 
til answer. Costumes modern. Plays 2 1 /l hours. 

The story is about vocational training, a subject now widely discussed; also, 
e distribution of large wealth. 

I Back of the comedy situation and snappy dialogue there is good logic and 
Sound moral in this pretty play, which is worthy the attention of the expen- 
ded amateur. It is a clean, wholesome play, particularly suited to high school 
pduction. Price, 30 Cents, 



MISS SOMEBODY ELSE. J 

lA modern play in four acts by Marion Short, author of "The Touch- 
wvn," etc. 6 males, 10 females. Two interior scenes. Costumes mod^ 
fi. Plays 2J4 hours. 

'.This delightful comedy has gripping dramatic moments, unusual character 
pes, a striking and original plot and is essentially modern in theme and treat- 
Hit. The story concerns the adventures of Constance Darcy, a multi-million- 
re's young daughter. Constance embarks on a trip to find a young man who 
A been in her father's employ and had stolen a large sum of money. She 
(ipost succeeds, when suddenly all traces of the young man are lost. At this 
lint she meets some old friends who are living in almost want and, in order to 
sist them through motives benevolent, she determines to sink her own aristo- 
atic personality in that of a refined but humble little Irish waitress with the 
Daily that are in want. She not only carries her scheme to success in assisting 
e family, but finds romance and much tense and lively adventure during the 
:riod of her incognito, aside from capturing the young man who had defrauded 
3" father. The story is full of bright comedy lines and dramatic situations and 

highly recommended for amateur production. This is one of the, best come- 
es we have ever offered with a large number of female characters. The dialogue 

bright and the play is full of action from start to finish; not a dull moment in 
This is a great comedy for high schools and colleges, and the wholesome 
ory will please the parents and teachers, We strongly recommend it. 

Price, 30 Cents. 



PURPLE AND FINE LINEN. 

An exceptionally pretty comedy of Puritan New England, in three 
ts, by Amita B. Fairgrieve and Helena Miller. 9 male, 5 female char- 
ters. 

This is the Lend A Hand Smith College prize play. It is an admirable play 
* amateurs, is rich in character portrayal of varied types and is not too difficult 
lile thoroughly pleasing. Price, 30 Cents. 

(The Above Are Subject to Royalty When Produced) 



SAMUEL FRENCH, 28-30 West 38th Street, New York City 

Mew and Explicit Descriptive Catalogue Mailed Free on Request 



THE TOUCH-DOWN. 

A comedy in four acts, by Marion Short. 8 males, 6 females, but an; 
number of characters can be introduced in the ensembles. Costumes mod 
em. One interior scene throughout the play. Time, 2y 2 hours. 

This play, written for the use of clever amateurs, is the story of life is 
Siddell, a Pennsylvania co-educational college. It deals with the vicissitudes an. 
final triumph of the Siddell Football Eleven, and the humorous and dramatic 
incidents connected therewith. 

"The Touch-Down" has the true varsity atmosphere, college songs are sungij 
and the piece is lively and entertaining throughout. High schools will make n< 
mistake in producing this play. We strongly recommend it as a high-class an< 
well-written comedy. Price, 30 Cents 



HURRY, HURRY, HURRY. 

A comedy in three acts, by LeRoy Arnold. 5 males, 4 females. Om 
interior scene. Costumes modern. Plays 2% hours. 

The story is based on the will of an eccentric aunt. It stipulates that he! 1 
pretty niece must be affianced before she is twenty-one, and married to he! 
fiance within a yean, if she is to get her spinster relative's million. Father ha 
nice notions of honor and fails to tell daughter about the will, so that she mal 
make her choice untrammeled by any other consideration than that of true love 1 
The action all takes place in the evening the midnight of which will see he: 
reach twenty-one. Time is -therefore short, and it is hurry, hurry, hurry, if sh< 
is to become engaged and thus save her father from impending bankruptcy. 

The situations are intrinsically funny and the dialogue is sprightly. Th<j 
characters are natural and unaffected and the action moves with a snap such as 
should be expected from its title. Price, 30 Cents 

• 

THE VARSITY COACH. 

A three-act play of college life, by Marion Short, specially adaptec 
to performance by amateurs or high school students. 5 males, 6 females 1 
but any number of boys and girls may be introduced- in the action of the 
play. Two settings necessary, a college boy's room and the university 
campus. Time, about 2 hours. 

Like many another college boy, "Bob" Selbyj an all-round popular colleg^ 
man, becomes possessed of the idea that athletic prowess is more to be desirec 
than scholarship. He is surprised in the midst of a "spread" in his room it 
Regatta week by a visit from his aunt who is putting him through college 
Aunt Serena, "a lady of the old school and the dearest little woman in tht 
whole world," has hastened to make this visit to her adored nephew under thi 
mistaken impression that he is about to receive the Fellowes prize for scholarship 
Her grief and chagrin when she learns that instead of the prize Robert has 
received "a pink card," which is equivalent to suspension for poor scholarship; 
gives a touch of pathos to an otherwise jolly comedy of college life. How th< 
repentant Robert more than redeems himself, carries off honors at the last, and 
in the end wins Ruth, the faithful little sweetheart of the "Prom" and the class^ 
room makes a story of dramatic interest and brings out very clearly certaiij 
phases of modern college life. There ard several opportunities for the introductiot 
of college songs and "stunts." Price, 30 Cents 

(The Above Are Subject to Royalty When Produced) 



SAMUEL FRENCH, 28-30 West 38th Street, New York City 

Hew and Explicit Descriptive Catalogue Mailed Free on Request 



THE REJUVENATION OF AUNT MARY. 

famous comedy in three acts, by Anne Warner. 7 males, 1 
3. Three interior scenes. Costumes modern. Plays 2% hours, 

i$ a genuinely funny comedy with splendid parts for "Aunt Mary," 
her lively nephew; "Lucinda," a New England ancient maid of all work 2 
' three chums; the Girl "Jack" loves; "Joshua," Aunt Mary's hire! 
'c. 

at Mary" was played by May Rob son in New York and on tour for over 
irs, and it is sure to be a big success wherever produced. We strongly 
end it, Price, €0 Cegti 

MRS. BUMSTEAD-LEIGH. 

pleasing comedy, in three acts, by Harry James Smith, author of 
failor-Made Man." 6 males, 6 females. One interior scene. Cos- 
modern. Plays 2J4 hours. 

Smith" chose for 5 his initial comedy # the complications arising from the 
prs of a social climber to land herself in the altitude -peopled by hyphenated 
j-a theme permitting innumerable complications, according to the spirit of 
titer. - 

a most successful comedy was toured for several seasons by Mrs. Fiske 
lormous success. Price, 60 Cents. 

! 

MRS. TEMPLE'S TELEGRAM. 

,most successful farce in three acts, by Frank Wyatt and William 
s. 5 males, 4 females. One interior scene stands throughout the 
acts. Costumes modern. Plays V/ 2 hours. 

Irs. Temple's Telegram" is a sprightly farce in which there is an abund* 
f fun ' without any taint of impropriety or any element of offence. Ae 
i by Sir Walter Scott, "Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we 
-e to deceive!" 

l 1 ire is not a dull moment in the entire farce, and from the time the curtain 
until it makes the final drop the fun is fast and furious. A very exceptional 

Price, 60 Cents. 

THE NEW CO-ED. 

comedy in four acts, by Marie Doran, author of "Tempest and 
Ine," etc. Characters, 4 males, 7 females, though any number of 
and girls can be introduced in the action of the play. One interior 

-»ne exterior scene, but can be easily played in one interior scene. 

[mes modern. Time, about 2 hours. 

e theme of this play is the coming of a new student to the college, her 
ion by the scholars, her trials and final tiiumph. 

ere are three especially good girls' parts, Letty, Madge and Estelle, but 
hers have plenty to do. "Punch" Doolittle and George Washington Watts, 
tleman of color, are two particularly good comedy characters. We can 
recommend "The New Co-Ed" to high schools and amateurs. 

Price, 30 Cents, 

(The Above Are Subject to Royalty When Produced) 
SAMUEL FRENCH, 28-30 West 38th Street, New York City 

lew and Explicit Descriptive Catalogue Mailed Free on Request 



FRENCH'S 

Standard Library Edition 

Includes Plays by 

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle 
Louis N. Parker 
Madeleine Lucette Ryley 
Winchell Smith 
Margaret Mayo 
Wm. C. de Mille 
Edward Peple 
A. E. W. Mason 
Charles Klein 
James Forbes 
Henry Arthur Jones 
A. E. Thomas 
Channing Pollock 
Fred. Ballard 
J. Hartley Manners 
James Montgomery 

Cyril Harcourt 
Roi Cooper Megrue 
Carlisle Moore 
Ernest Denny 
Laurence Housman 
Harry James Smith 
Edgar Selwyn 
Augustin McHugh 
Percy MacKaye Robert Housum 

French's International Copyrighted Edition con- 
tains plays, comedies and farces of international 
reputation; also recent professional successes by 
famous American and English Authors. 

Send a four-cent stamp for our new catalogue 
describing thousands of plays. 

SAMUEL FRENCH 

Oldest Play Publisher In the World 

28-30 West 38th Street, NEW YORK CITY 



Clyde Fitch 
R. C. Carton 
Alfred Sutro 
Richard Harding Davis 
Arthur W. Pinero 
Anthony Hope 
Oscar Wilde 
Haddon Chambers 
Jerome K. Jerome 
Cosmo Gordon Lennox 
H. V. Esmond 
Mark Swan 
Grace L. Furniss 
Marguerite Merrington 
Hermann Sudermann 
Rida Johnson Young 
Arthur Law 
Rachel Crothers 
Augustus Thomas 
William Gillette 
George Broadhurst 
Martha Morton 
H. A. Du Souchet 
Edward E. Kidder 
W. W. Jacobs 



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